France beat Senegal 3–1, Iraq next with qualification in sight

France 3–1 Senegal, Iraq next with a knockout spot at stake

Three points, no drama. France opened their 2026 World Cup with a 3–1 win over Senegal on Thursday (1). Your team are one victory away from the round of 16, and that next chance comes against Iraq (1). Win that, and the group stage is effectively done.

Fixture confirmed: Iraq on the second matchday

The date is set. France face Iraq in their second group match, with full broadcast details available via Midi Libre (1). A victory guarantees progression with a game to spare.

Nike bonus waiting if France go all the way

Lifting the trophy in 2026 means more than a third star. Nike have a substantial bonus lined up for the FFF if Deschamps' squad win the whole thing, RMC Sport report (3). The exact figure is not public, but it is described as an XXL payout.

Thauvin back in Ligue 1 with Lens

A world champion returns. Florian Thauvin joined RC Lens in summer 2025, bringing his 2018 World Cup medal back to Ligue 1 after spells at Marseille and abroad (2). At 33, the winger is still operating at a level that earned him a spot in France's recent setup.