PARIS, France – France will look to maintain their perfect start to World Cup qualifying when they host Iceland at the Stade de France on Tuesday, facing a visiting side riding high after their own emphatic opening victory.
Didier Deschamps’ side began their campaign with a 2-0 win over Ukraine on Friday, with captain Kylian Mbappé scoring his 51st international goal to equal Thierry Henry’s tally. The result extended France’s remarkable home record in World Cup qualifying, where they have suffered just one defeat in their last 24 matches spanning 32 years.
Iceland arrive in Paris buoyed by a 5-0 demolition of Azerbaijan that placed them temporarily atop Group D. However, they face a formidable historical challenge: France remain unbeaten in 15 previous meetings (W11, D4), including comprehensive victories in their last three competitive encounters by a combined 10-2 scoreline.
The match presents contrasting narratives: France’s established dominance against Iceland’s bid to build momentum for what would be only their second World Cup appearance. Iceland’s away form remains a concern, with three losses in their last four road matches, though they have shown a tendency to score before halftime in eight of their last 11 outings.
France will be without injured forwards Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué, potentially testing their attacking depth. Iceland monitor Victor Pálsson’s fitness after his late withdrawal against Azerbaijan.
Despite Iceland’s encouraging start, France’s historical dominance and home advantage make them strong favorites. However, Iceland’s scoring capability and France’s attacking absences suggest the visitors might avoid the heavy defeats that have characterized recent meetings between the sides.
