France will look to extend their perfect start in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers when they face Iceland in Group D on Monday night. Didier Deschamps’ men sit comfortably at the top of the table with nine points from three matches. Meanwhile, Iceland are in third place and are still in contention for a playoff spot. However, they will need a strong performance here to stay alive in the race.
Iceland began their campaign brightly with a 5-0 thrashing of Azerbaijan, but back-to-back defeats to France (1-2) and Ukraine (3-5) have dented their hopes. The loss to Ukraine was particularly damaging, as Iceland conceded five goals at home despite taking an early lead. Manager Arnar Gunnlaugsson’s side now face an uphill battle, and anything from this clash in Reykjavik would be considered a major bonus.
France, meanwhile, are cruising through Group D. The reigning World Cup finalists have scored seven goals and conceded just one in their opening three games, including a 3-0 win over Azerbaijan recently. Goals from Kylian Mbappe, Adrien Rabiot and Florian Thauvin sealed another dominant display for Les Bleus.
| Bets | Moneyline | Moneyline |
| Full Time Result | Iceland: +1100, France: -475 | Draw: +625 |
| Draw No Bet | Iceland: +825 | France: -2000 |
| Total Goals | Over 3.5: +105 | Under 3.5: -150 |
| Iceland to Win and Both Teams to Score | Yes: +1600 | No: +1700 |
| France to Win and Both Teams to Score | Yes: +170 | No: -110 |
(Odds via BetMGM)
France will be without several key players – most notably Mbappe and Bradley Barcola, who both scored in the reverse fixture. Their absence will force the French coach to test his squad depth. France’s defensive stability, led by Dayot Upamecano and Mike Maignan, remains a major strength and could once again be decisive. With maximum points so far, France are on track to secure qualification comfortably and will want to maintain momentum heading into next month’s decisive fixtures.
Historically, Iceland have struggled against France, failing to win in any of their 16 meetings (12 losses, 4 draws) since their first encounter in 1957. Breaking that record on Monday would require a flawless display at both ends of the pitch. Iceland need a result to stay in the race for second place. The odds are firmly in favour of Les Bleus, but with nothing to lose, the hosts could still make this a spirited contest under the Reykjavik lights.
The Under 3.5 Goals line looks solid for Iceland vs France, given both teams’ recent trends. France have been defensively rock-solid, keeping three clean sheets in their last four games. All three of their World Cup qualifiers finished under this mark. Iceland, meanwhile, have struggled to score against top sides, managing just one goal in their 1-2 loss to France last month and none against Northern Ireland earlier.
With Kylian Mbappe sidelined, Hugo Ekitike is expected to lead France’s attack against Iceland, making him an appealing anytime goalscorer pick. The Liverpool forward has been in strong form, scoring three goals and providing one assist in six Premier League games. While he’s yet to open his account in the World Cup qualifiers, Ekitike has been involved in France’s buildup play with an assist already. He is is likely to take on a more central role in Mbappé’s absence. Against an Iceland defense that conceded five goals to Ukraine, Ekitike’s sharp movement and finishing ability could see him find the net for Les Bleus.
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France are expected to continue their dominant run in Group D with another convincing victory here. Iceland, meanwhile, have shown defensive frailty as they conceded five goals to Ukraine. Their backline has struggled to contain fast, technical attackers, which plays right into France’s hands. Given the difference in quality and form, another comfortable France win looks likely.
Final Prediction: Iceland 0-3 France
Bettors can explore a variety of betting options on BetMGM, including full-time results, over/under goals, and player props for this clash.
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