World Cup 2026 Game Predictions, Scripts & Picks

France enters this Group Stage opener as overwhelming favorites, but Iraq's recent form suggests this could be more competitive than the massive price differential indicates. The French roster features elite talent across all positions, with Mike Maignan anchoring the defense, Aurelien Tchouameni controlling the midfield, and Michael Olise providing creative spark. However, their recent friendlies showed vulnerability, including a 2-1 home loss to Ivory Coast and requiring late goals to beat Northern Ireland 3-1. France's World Cup pedigree is undeniable with 73 matches, 41 wins, and two titles, but opening matches can be tricky regardless of talent disparity. Iraq brings limited World Cup experience with just three previous appearances, all losses, but their recent international form shows character. They held Spain to a 1-1 draw in a friendly and have been competitive in qualification, including a crucial 2-1 win over Bolivia. The Lions have scored in eight of their last ten matches, suggesting they won't roll over despite the talent gap. The demand metrics heavily favor France with a 72 rating compared to Iraq's 22, reflecting superior roster quality and fan following. However, Iraq's travel score of 25 indicates they'll have minimal crowd support, which could actually help them play freely without pressure. France's recent form shows they've been scoring consistently, netting 107 goals in their last 50 matches, but they've also conceded 46 times, indicating defensive lapses against lesser opposition. Iraq has managed 72 goals in 53 recent matches while allowing 50, showing they can find the net but struggle defensively. The market has set the total at 3 goals with over juice at -137, suggesting bookmakers expect a comfortable France win with multiple goals. The -2.5 spread on France indicates the market expects a multi-goal victory, but Iraq's ability to score in most matches could keep this closer than anticipated. France's midfield depth with Kante, Rabiot, and Tchouameni should control possession, but Iraq's counter-attacking ability through players like Zidane Iqbal and Ibrahim Bayesh could create chances. The key factor is whether France takes this seriously from the opening whistle or allows Iraq to stay in the match through complacency. Group Stage openers often see favorites start slowly as they feel out opponents and manage tournament energy. Iraq's defensive structure, led by experienced players like Frans Putros and Rebin Sulaka, will look to frustrate France early and potentially grab a shock result. However, France's quality should eventually tell, particularly if they can get an early goal to force Iraq to open up. The over 3 goals looks reasonable given France's attacking talent and Iraq's defensive limitations, but the large spread creates value concerns on France covering easily.