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Sport Nation
FWC: MEX v RSA live on SN ExtraFIFA World Cup 2026: France, Norway, Senegal, Iraq preview
Sport Nation • June 11th, 2026 1:11 pm
Group I presents a blockbuster collection of world-class firepower, burning motivational narratives, and a fascinating mix of tactical philosophies that promises plenty of goals.
World No. 3 France headlines the group as overwhelming favorites, highly motivated to secure a third star in head coach Didier Deschamps’ final campaign.
Les Bleus boast a terrifying, star-studded front three led by reigning Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, captain Kylian Mbappé, and the electric Michael Olise.
France's Michael Olise in action during the Paris Olympics 2024 Men's Finals | Photo: Raghavan Venugopal/Photosport
They face an intriguing challenge from Norway, experiencing a massive footballing revolution.
Returning to the world stage for the first time since 1998 after an undefeated qualification run, the Norwegians rely on a devastating blueprint: Martin Ødegaard providing the midfield playmaking magic to feed the blistering, prolific goal-scoring machine that is Erling Haaland.
The group's emotional fuse belongs to Senegal, arriving with a massive chip on their shoulder after controversially being stripped of their recent AFCON title.
The highly balanced Lions of Teranga utilize intense physical power in midfield and the enduring clinical edge of spiritual leader Sadio Mané to hunt down an historic upset of the French.
Sadio Mané of Senegal | Photo: AP
Rounding out the quartet is Iraq, entering only their second-ever World Cup.
Under the experienced, gritty tournament guidance of manager Graham Arnold, they’ll deploy a compact defensive frame while looking to the talented striking duo of Aymen Hussein and Ali Al-Hamadi to embrace the giant-killer role.
Expect a relentless race for automatic progression where Norway's superstar duo and Senegal's physical hunger push a glittering French side to its absolute limit.
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FIFA World Cup 2026: France, Norway, Senegal, Iraq preview | Group I
