France will host Iceland in a World Cup Group D qualifier at the Parc des Princes. Both teams won their opening matches, with France defeating Ukraine 2-0 and Iceland triumphing over Azerbaijan 5-0. Didier Deschamps faces criticism despite France’s consistent scoring, while Iceland, led by Arnar Gunnlaugsson, aims to overcome their historical struggles against France. France is favored due to their strong squad and home advantage, but Iceland’s recent form adds intrigue. The match promises excitement as France seeks to solidify their position in the group.
France is set to host Iceland at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday in a World Cup Group D qualifier, aiming to avoid any unexpected setbacks. Both teams have started their campaigns with victories, each securing three points from their initial matches. France managed a 2-0 win against Ukraine on Friday, while Iceland had a more decisive 5-0 victory over Azerbaijan on the same night.
Despite the win against Ukraine, some critics continue to question Didier Deschamps' tactical approach, arguing that his pragmatic style does not fully leverage the team's abundant talent. Since taking over in 2012, Deschamps has secured only one major trophy. Although France reached the World Cup final in 2022, they suffered a semi-final exit to Spain in Euro 2024 and finished third in the 2024-25 Nations League.
France has shown consistency in scoring, netting at least twice in eight of their last 10 games, while also keeping three clean sheets in their last four. Their recent results include two 2-0 victories, but they have also dropped points in three of their last five matches. At home, France remains a formidable opponent, with three wins, one draw, and only one defeat in their last five home games.
For Tuesday’s match, Deschamps will need to make adjustments due to an injury to winger Desire Doue. This could give Hugo Ekitike an opportunity to play, with Kylian Mbappe, Bradley Barcola, and Michael Olise expected to complete the attack. In midfield, Manu Kone and Aurelien Tchouameni may start, positioned ahead of central defenders Ibrahima Konate and Dayot Upamecano.
Iceland, after a narrow 1-0 lead at halftime against Azerbaijan, demonstrated strong defensive discipline in the second half, preventing their opponents from having any attempts on goal. Historically, Iceland has struggled against France, failing to win in 15 attempts and managing only one draw in their five meetings since 2012. Newly appointed head coach Arnar Gunnlaugsson, who assumed his role in January 2025, has seen his team concede seven goals in five games.
Nevertheless, Iceland travels to Paris with boosted confidence from two wins in their last three matches, during which they scored eight goals. However, their away record is concerning, with three defeats in their last four away games. Gunnlaugsson is likely to maintain the same lineup that defeated Azerbaijan 5-0, with Victor Palsson, Sverrir Ingi Ingason, and Daniel Gretarsson forming the three-man defense. In midfield, Stefan Teitur Thordarson and Isak Bergmann Johannesson are expected to link up with striker Andri Gudjohnsen.
France is considered the favorite, boasting a squad filled with top-tier talent and a strong historical advantage over Iceland. While Iceland may pose a threat, particularly after their recent victory over Azerbaijan, overcoming France's depth and quality across the field seems unlikely.
The match is more than just a formality for France. It's an opportunity to solidify their position in Group D and send a message to their rivals. Deschamps will be keen to see his team perform with both efficiency and flair, silencing the lingering doubts about his tactical approach. For Iceland, the game represents a chance to test themselves against one of the world's best teams and build on their recent momentum. Even a narrow defeat could be seen as a positive result, provided they show resilience and determination.
The atmosphere at the Parc des Princes is expected to be electric, with French fans eager to support their team. The presence of stars like Mbappe and the tactical battle between Deschamps and Gunnlaugsson add extra intrigue to the encounter. While France's historical dominance and superior squad suggest a comfortable victory, Iceland's recent form and determination mean they cannot be underestimated. This World Cup qualifier promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams having something to prove.
France's attacking prowess, combined with Iceland's defensive vulnerabilities on the road, points towards a high-scoring affair. Expect France to capitalize on their home advantage and secure a convincing win, further solidifying their quest for World Cup qualification.