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France 24
France 24
L'Equipe TV

World Cup 2026: France into last 32 with win over Iraq despite two-hour weather delay

Cover image: Kylian Mbappé has already scored four goals since the start of the tournament. © Petr David Josek, AP

With a second win in two matches, Les Bleus secured their place in the World Cup round of 32. Although they were never really troubled by Iraq (3-0), France were mainly disrupted by a storm over Philadelphia, which suspended the match for almost two hours between the first and second halves.

France will play a "final" on Friday against Norway for first place in Group I. Senegal, beaten 3-2 by Erling Haaland's teammates, are on the brink of elimination.

Lionel Messi has further written his name into the history books. The 38-year-old forward became the all-time top scorer in World Cup history by scoring a brace against Austria. He now leads German striker Miroslav Klose by two goals, the previous record holder since 2014.

Venus Williams suffered her 11th consecutive singles defeat. The 46-year-old American has not won since last July, but she will have a chance to bounce back in doubles at Wimbledon, where she will partner with her sister Serena Williams.

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