Didier Deschamps is set to ring the changes for France’s second Group I fixture against Iraq at the 2026 World Cup. Bradley Barcola, Paris Saint-Germain’s electric left winger, will make his first World Cup start in place of Désiré Doué, who failed to impress in the opening half against Senegal. For England fans tracking their potential path to glory, a fully-firing France — already 3-1 winners over Senegal — sends a clear message: Les Bleus mean business.
The Three Changes: What Deschamps Is Planning vs Iraq
Despite the comfortable 3-1 win over Senegal, Deschamps was unhappy with the output from his wide positions in the first half. Three changes are set to follow for France vs Iraq: Barcola comes in for Doué on the left, while further adjustments involving Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise are expected to reshape France’s attacking shape entirely.
Barcola had a stunning club campaign in 2024-25 — 27 goals and 18 assists for PSG in Ligue 1. At 22, this is his moment to announce himself on football’s biggest stage. His pace alone could cause serious problems for any defensive line, Iraq’s included.
Why Barcola Is Starting: Doué’s Struggle Against Senegal Explained
Désiré Doué, Bayern Munich’s 20-year-old prodigy, never found his footing in the first half against Senegal. His pressing was inconsistent and he offered little in the final third when France needed creativity to unlock a well-organised backline. Deschamps has seen enough.
Barcola is a different proposition entirely. Direct, explosive, and comfortable cutting inside to shoot, he gives Kylian Mbappé a natural partner on the left flank. Deschamps is ready to unleash the combination that looked so dangerous in training.
What England Must Learn From This Revamped France
England, progressing strongly under Thomas Tuchel, would face a very different France in the knockout rounds compared to the one that edged past Senegal. A fully-rotated France with Mbappé, Barcola, Dembélé and Olise firing is arguably the most frightening attacking unit left in the competition.
Tuchel will know exactly how dangerous Barcola can be — he faced him multiple times in the Bundesliga and Champions League. England’s full-backs will need to be at their absolute best if a semi-final date with France materialises. The time to start preparing is now.
France vs Iraq: Three Points and Full Steam Ahead
Iraq’s surprise win over Norway showed they are no pushovers, but France on a mission is a different challenge entirely. Deschamps wants his squad sharp, his tactics settled, and his stars in rhythm before the knockout rounds begin.
Mbappé’s brace against Senegal confirmed he is in form at exactly the right time. If Barcola adds goals or assists in a comfortable win over Iraq, France will enter the round of 16 with a full head of steam — and England will be watching every second of it.
FAQ
What are the three changes France are making against Iraq at World Cup 2026?
Deschamps is set to bring in Bradley Barcola for Désiré Doué on the left wing, along with further adjustments involving Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise in the French attack for France vs Iraq at the 2026 World Cup.
Why is Barcola starting against Iraq instead of Doué?
Désiré Doué struggled in the first half against Senegal and Deschamps wants more energy and directness on the left. Barcola’s pace, dribbling ability and goal threat make him the ideal replacement for this match.
Could England face France at the 2026 World Cup?
Yes, depending on results in the group stage and knockout rounds, England and France could meet in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup — a fixture that would capture global attention given the quality in both squads.
When is France vs Iraq at the 2026 World Cup?
France vs Iraq takes place on 22 June 2026 in the second round of Group I matches. A France win would seal their qualification for the round of 16 with one game to spare.
Is France among the favourites to win the 2026 World Cup?
France are considered one of the top contenders alongside Brazil, Spain and Argentina. With Mbappé in form and Barcola now in the starting line-up, their attacking firepower is among the most dangerous in the competition.
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