France vs Iceland – Match preview and team news

France and Iceland go head-to-head in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Tuesday.

Both sides will be looking to build on their opening matchday victories, with France seeking to take early control of Group D after their 2-0 win over Ukraine. Iceland aims to continue their impressive start following a 5-0 demolition of Azerbaijan.

1. Date: 9th September, Tuesday.
2. Kick-off: 7:45pm BST.
3. Venue: Parc Des Princes, Paris.

France Team News

France will be without key attacking duo Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué, both of whom suffered injuries during Les Bleus’ 2-0 victory over Ukraine on Friday. Dembélé is expected to be sidelined for six weeks with a serious hamstring injury, while Doué faces approximately four weeks out with a calf strain.

Al-Nassr winger Kingsley Coman has been called up as a replacement for the injured pair. PSG have criticised the French Football Federation over what they described as “avoidable” injuries, claiming they had warned about acceptable workloads for their players.

Captain Kylian Mbappé will lead the line after equalling Thierry Henry’s record of 51 international goals in the Ukraine victory. The Real Madrid star remains France’s focal point despite recent controversies surrounding his captaincy.

Iceland Team News

Iceland head coach Arnar Gunnlaugsson will be confident after his side’s emphatic 5-0 victory over Azerbaijan in their World Cup qualifying opener. The former Víkingur coach, who was appointed in January 2025, has built his reputation on tactical discipline and attacking flair.

Star striker Albert Guðmundsson will spearhead Iceland’s attack. The Fiorentina forward, who has 10 goals in 41 international appearances, represents the fourth generation of his family to score for Iceland. His great-grandfather was Iceland’s first professional footballer and a former Arsenal player.

Goalkeeper Elías Ólafsson is expected to start between the posts, while experienced defender Victor Pálsson will anchor the defence.

Form

France: WLLWW

Didier Deschamps’ side has shown resilience following their disappointing third-place finish in the UEFA Nations League. Les Bleus secured a professional 2-0 away victory over Ukraine on Friday, with goals from Michael Olise and Kylian Mbappé. The victory came despite injury concerns, demonstrating the squad’s depth and quality.

France remain unbeaten against Iceland in seven previous encounters, including a 1-0 victory in Reykjavik six years ago. Their recent form suggests they are finding consistency ahead of major tournaments.

Iceland: LLWLW

Iceland made a dream start to their World Cup qualifying campaign with a comprehensive 5-0 victory over Azerbaijan. This result represented a significant improvement from their recent struggles, including defeats to Kosovo in the Nations League playoffs.

Under new management, Iceland have shown signs of tactical evolution. However, they face a significant step up in quality against world-class opposition in Paris.

Predicted Lineups

France: Maignan; Koundé, Konaté, Upamecano, Digne; Tchouaméni, Koné; Akliouche, Olise, Barcola; Mbappé.

Iceland: Ólafsson; Pálsson, Ingason, Grétarsson, Elertsson; Haraldsson, Thórdarson, Jóhannesson; Thorsteinsson, Guðjohnsen, Guðmundsson.

UK fans can watch the game on Amazon Prime PPV.

Subscribe to our social channels:

View publisher imprint