The Daily Star Ireland
France host Iceland at the Parc des Princes in Paris for their second World Cup 2026 qualifying fixture, with both teams looking to build on strong opening performances. Les Bleus began their campaign with a controlled 2–0 win over Ukraine, while Iceland shocked many by dismantling Azerbaijan 5–0 in Reykjavik. With Group D beginning to take shape, this clash will test France’s consistency and Iceland’s newfound attacking edge.
Match Preview
Didier Deschamps’ France remain one of the favorites to top their group, but questions linger over their balance and cohesion. Despite keeping a clean sheet against Ukraine, defensive lapses nearly proved costly, and Deschamps will demand sharper organization at the back. France’s home form, however, remains elite—they’ve won three of their last five in Paris and scored at least twice in eight of their last ten home fixtures across competitions.
Injuries are a concern heading into this matchup. Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué are both unavailable, forcing Deschamps into a reshuffle. Hugo Ekitike is likely to start up front alongside Kylian Mbappé and Bradley Barcola, while Michael Olise could be an alternative on the right. Aurélien Tchouaméni and Manu Koné are expected to anchor midfield, and Ibrahima Konaté should partner Dayot Upamecano in central defense.
Iceland, led by Arnar Gunnlaugsson, arrive in confident mood after a record-breaking 5–0 win that showcased their attacking revival. Andri Gudjohnsen is expected to retain his starting role after scoring in that game, with Albert Gudmundsson orchestrating play from deeper positions. The Icelandic midfield—featuring Isak Bergmann Johannesson and Stefan Teitur Thordarson—has struck a fine balance between physicality and creativity.
Gunnlaugsson’s tactical approach emphasizes pressing and quick transitions, and while Iceland’s away record is inconsistent, their newfound intensity could test France’s composure. Still, France’s depth and technical quality make them heavy favorites, particularly with the support of a raucous home crowd under the Paris lights.
Team Form & Recent Results
France (Last 5 matches): W D L W W
Iceland (Last 5 matches): W L W L W
France have scored in each of their last 10 matches and kept five clean sheets in that span. Iceland’s form is more erratic, but they’ve found the net in four of their last five outings.
Head-to-Head Record
France have dominated this fixture historically, boasting 12 wins and three draws from 15 encounters. Their last meeting ended in a 4–0 victory for Les Bleus in 2019, with Mbappé and Giroud among the scorers. Iceland have yet to record a competitive win against France, though they famously drew 2–2 in a 2018 friendly.
Lineups, Injuries & Suspensions
France Predicted XI: Maignan (GK); Koundé, Konaté, Upamecano, Hernandez; Tchouaméni, Koné; Olise, Mbappé (c), Barcola; Ekitike
Iceland Predicted XI: Runarsson (GK); Palsson, Ingason, Oskarsson, Hauksson; Thordarson, Johannesson, Traustason; Gudmundsson, Gudjohnsen, Finnbogason
Injuries:
- France: Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué (out)
- Iceland: None reported
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
France’s blueprint remains built around control and pace. Mbappé will look to exploit Iceland’s high defensive line with diagonal runs, while Olise and Barcola provide width and direct dribbling. The midfield’s job will be to maintain tempo and recover second balls, an area where Tchouaméni’s ball-winning and distribution could prove decisive.
Iceland will likely rely on compact shape and counters. Gudjohnsen’s aerial ability and Gudmundsson’s creativity make them dangerous from set pieces and transitions. The visitors will aim to disrupt France’s rhythm with early pressing before retreating into a 4-4-2 defensive block.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
- Match Result: France (1.20) | Draw (6.00) | Iceland (13.00)
- Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over (1.65) | Under (2.10)
- Both Teams to Score: Yes (2.50) | No (1.45)
Betting Insights:
- France have scored 2+ goals in eight of their last ten home games.
- Iceland have lost three of their last four away matches in qualifiers.
- Seven of France’s last ten wins have come with clean sheets.
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Venue: Parc des Princes, Paris
Date: October 12, 2025
Kickoff Time: 20:45 CET / 19:45 GMT
Broadcast: TF1, Viaplay, FIFA+ (regional variations apply)
Prediction: France vs Iceland, World Cup 2026 Qualifiers
France’s superior quality and home advantage should make the difference, though Iceland’s organization and form suggest they won’t fold easily. Expect the visitors to hold out early before France’s relentless attacking waves eventually break through. Mbappé’s influence will once again be decisive under the Paris floodlights.
- Final Prediction: France 3–0 Iceland
- Best Bet: France to Win & Over 2.5 Goals
- Alternative Value: Kylian Mbappé to Score Anytime
