🇫🇷 France
Mbappé, elite depth at every position, and the tactical flexibility of Deschamps. The reigning runners-up are built to win it all.
World Cup 2026 Group I Predictions
Les Bleus, two-time champions and 2022 finalists, enter as one of the tournament's undisputed favorites. Mbappé at his peak is unstoppable. But Group I is no formality — Senegal are Africa's most complete team, led by Sadio Mané and a physically dominant midfield. Norway feature the Haaland-Ødegaard axis and are everyone's dark horse pick. Iraq's emotional return after 40 years provides the group's human story. The battle for second place will be ferocious.
🇳🇴 Norway
Haaland can score against anyone, and Ødegaard can create against anyone. Norway haven't been to a World Cup in decades, but they have the talent to go deep.
Predicted Finish
France win the group with maximum points. Norway edge Senegal for second in a direct clash decided by Haaland. Senegal finish third in the group of death. Iraq win hearts.
Match to Watch
France vs Norway — Mbappé vs Haaland. The two heirs to Messi and Ronaldo's throne, facing off on the World Cup stage for the first time. Box office.
Group I Fixtures
🇫🇷 France vs 🇸🇳 Senegal2026-06-16 · MetLife Stadium
🇮🇶 Iraq vs 🇳🇴 Norway2026-06-16 · Soldier Field
🇫🇷 France vs 🇳🇴 Norway2026-06-26 · MetLife Stadium
🇸🇳 Senegal vs 🇮🇶 Iraq2026-06-26 · Soldier Field
🇸🇳 Senegal vs 🇳🇴 Norway2026-06-22 · MetLife Stadium
🇫🇷 France vs 🇮🇶 Iraq2026-06-22 · Soldier Field