Group I — France, Senegal, Iraq and Norway. The two genuine contenders are France and Senegal, with a special historical connection: many of Senegal’s key players grew up in France. The France vs Senegal match is the headline fixture of the group and one of the most anticipated in the first round.
Group composition
| Team | Coach | WC odds | Key players |
|---|---|---|---|
| France | Didier Deschamps | ~6.00 | Mbappé, Dembélé, Thuram, Kanté |
| Senegal | Aliou Cissé | ~55.00 | Sadio Mané (fitness?), Koulibaly |
| Norway | — | outsider | Erling Haaland |
| Iraq | — | outsider | — |
France: Mbappé chasing Klose’s record
Deschamps has Mbappé (12 WC goals — 4 short of the all-time record), Dembélé, Thuram, Olise. Norway with Haaland is the only team in the group that could create genuine danger against France’s defence.
Senegal: dangerous for anyone
The reigning African champions. If Mané is fit, Senegal are dangerous. Their odds to beat France (~5.50) may slightly underestimate them given their physical quality and tactical discipline.
Group exit forecast
1st: France | 2nd: Senegal (or Norway) | Exit: Iraq and one of the two.
