France were up against Iceland in their fourth game of the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers 2026 in Group D. After securing three wins in their previous three games, Les Blues were on the cusp of securing their place
in next year’s World Cup. The 2018 Champions had beaten Iceland earlier by a narrow 2-1 margin with a red card shown to Aurelien Tchouameni.
French captain and Real Madrid star, Kylian Mbappe, picked up a knock in the previous encounter against Azerbaijan after scoring for 10 straight games in all competition. Didier Deschamps started in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Jean-Philippe Mateta leading the line. Florian Thauvin started as well after his well taken goal against Azerbaijan.
Iceland took the lead in the 39th minute via Victor Palsson who capitalized on the loose ball inside the box following a set-piece. The hosts went into half-time in lead after France wasted a lot of opportunities and some brilliance from Iceland’s goalkeeper, Elias Olafsson. The 2022 World Cup runners-up took the lead in a five minute spell following the 60th minute.
Christopher Nkunku scored the first goal before Mateta put France in lead on his first start for the national side. However, Iceland quickly equalized within two minutes thanks to Kristian Hlynsson. Iceland scored from their only two shots on target and punished France for slight lapses in defence and on transition. Deschamps side couldn’t find another goal in the remainder of the game despite outshooting Iceland 20-4.
Camavinga was brilliant as a part of the double pivot for France. Alongside Manu Kone, the young Frenchman helped break lines and progress the ball. His vertical passing was spectacular in progressing through the thirds, especially in the final 40% of the pitch. His pass to Maghnes Akliouche served as the pre-assist for the second France goal, showcasing his linebreaking ability.
The Real Madrid midfielder played 75 minutes after making his return to the national side following injury. His defensive effort was also noteworthy, covering ground and making his trademark lunges to recover the ball in threatening attacks. His positioning in the final third helped circulate the ball and provide support in attacks, while accelerating play. He completed 73 of his 79 passes while completing all four long ball attempts and registering five progressive passes.
France will have to wait until November to secure their ticket to the FIFA World Cup in the USA next year. With healthy minutes under his belt, Camavinga will now return to Madrid and be a big boost for Xabi Alonso’s side in the upcoming crucial phase of the season.
