Group I

Group I is widely regarded as the most punishing draw in the 2026 World Cup — with an average FIFA ranking of 25.75 across four teams, the toughest of any group in the tournament. France, Senegal, Norway, and Iraq pack a two-time champion, an African powerhouse, Europe’s most dangerous dark horse, and one of the most romantic qualification stories of the century into a single six-match cauldron. The opening match between France and Senegal at MetLife Stadium on June 16 carries extraordinary historical resonance: Senegal famously defeated defending champions France 1-0 at the 2002 World Cup in the tournament’s opening shock, sparking their run to the quarterfinals — exactly 24 years later, they meet again.

France under Didier Deschamps seek to become only the fifth nation in history to win the World Cup three or more times. Kylian Mbappé arrives at the peak of his generational talent (41 goals in 41 appearances in 2025-26) with Ousmane Dembelé (2025 Ballon d’Or winner) creating a fearsome attacking partnership. Senegal feature Sadio Mané’s experience and determination to close his international career with glory, supported by Nicolas Jackson’s physical presence.

Norway make their first World Cup appearance since 1998 — a 28-year absence ended by a qualifying campaign so dominant it has been called one of the great UEFA qualifying runs of the modern era: 8-0-0, 37 goals, 5 conceded. Erling Haaland’s 16-goal qualifying campaign signals what the world can expect. Iraq’s return after 40 years under Graham Arnold represents perhaps the tournament’s most emotionally charged narrative — their qualification sparked national celebrations and their defensive compactness could produce surprise results.