What should France expect from Iraq at the World Cup?
After a loss to Norway, Iraq displayed an ambitious but risky style of play. This tactical approach could prove to be a major challenge for France's defense on Monday.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Author: Кирилл Венедиктов
Despite a 1-4 defeat against Norway, Iraq left a notable impression. Graham Arnold's team utilizes a classic 4-4-2 formation but refuses to sit deep, opting instead for high pressing and aggressive transitions.
For France, this means the opponent is unlikely to park the bus. Full-backs Hussein Ali and Merchas Doski are highly active in pressing, often leaving vast spaces behind them. This creates dangerous channels for rapid counter-attacks that France’s offensive players will look to exploit.
The Lions of Mesopotamia are not afraid to play their own game even against star-studded opposition, but their adventurous style leaves them defensively vulnerable.
The main threat for France remains Iraq’s aerial presence. Strikers Aymen Hussein and Ali Al-Hamadi are physically imposing and are often targeted by direct long balls. This will be a significant test for the centre-back partnership of Dayot Upamecano and William Saliba.
Despite their bravery, Iraq struggles with passing accuracy, which has led to errors near their own goal. If France can press effectively, the opponent is likely to concede opportunities, similar to the mistake that led to Erling Haaland’s second goal against them.