The French national team secured their second win in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers at the Parc des Princes, defeating Iceland 2–1. Goals from Kylian Mbappé and Bradley Barcola answered Iceland’s opener from Andri Gudjohnsen.
Playing their first match in France in five months, Les Bleus were determined to put on a strong performance against Iceland, considered the toughest opponent in the group. Iceland sat deep in a compact 5-3-2 system, with defensive discipline as their main weapon. Unlike the more attacking-minded Ukraine, Iceland left no space for France to combine, forcing the home side to rely on crosses. Marcus Thuram came close with a header, but Icelandic goalkeeper Elias Olafsson denied him.
Against all odds, Iceland took the lead following a costly mistake by Michael Olise. Dropping deep to collect the ball, the Bayern Munich man felt the pressure and, attempting a back pass, gifted Andri Gudjohnsen the chance to score the opener.
France’s response took time but eventually came when Thuram won a penalty, which Mbappé converted. The Real Madrid star netted his 52nd goal for France, surpassing Thierry Henry to move into second place on the nation’s all-time scoring list, just five goals behind leader Olivier Giroud.
The winning goal arrived in the second half. Aurélien Tchouaméni sent Mbappé through on goal; the captain drew the keeper and squared the ball to Barcola, who slotted home to put France ahead.
What looked like a comfortable ending quickly turned tense when Tchouaméni was sent off for a reckless tackle. Down to ten men, France even saw Gudjohnsen find the net again, but VAR disallowed the goal for a foul on Ibrahima Konaté.
In the end, France battled their way to a hard-fought 2–1 win, taking top spot in their group ahead of Iceland, Ukraine, and Azerbaijan.