Group I Composition and Styles

Group I contains France, Senegal, Norway, and Iraq. This group features world class stars, African champions, and rising teams, making it highly attractive for fans.

France, boasting one of the deepest squads in the world, plays a balanced, clinical game that can adapt to any opponent. They possess individual players who can decide a match in a single moment, such as Kylian Mbappe. Senegal combines physical power with high technical quality, playing an aggressive style that dominates the midfield and utilizes fast wingers. Norway relies on the goal scoring instinct of their central forward and a structured, direct style of play. Iraq plays an organized, defensive game, seeking to remain compact and frustrate their opponents through tactical discipline.

Group I Outlook

France is favored to top the group, while Senegal and Norway are expected to fight for the second spot. The battle between Norway's directness and Senegal's physical midfield will be one of the highlights of the group stage. Iraq will aim to defend resolutely and secure points against the group favorites.

The top two teams from this group will automatically qualify for the Round of 32. In addition, the four best third placed teams across all twelve groups will also progress. This makes goal difference a critical factor in the final matches, encouraging teams to maintain an attacking mindset even when leading.