France vs Iraq Predictions

• France have won five of their last six matches with BTTS in all six
• Iraq lost 4-1 to Norway on Tuesday in their group opener
• Desire Doue had the second-most shots of France players in their 3-1 win over Senegal

Iraq clash a formality for France

France should complete the formality of qualifying for the knockout phase of the World Cup when they meet Group I rivals Iraq in Philadelphia on Monday. Didier Deschamps were decisive enough to beat a solid Senegal side 3-1 in their opener on Tuesday with Kylian Mbappe bagging an early tournament double.

He looks to be in tip-top form and so does Bayern Munich star Michael Olise, although reigning Ballon d’Or Ousmane Dembele struggled to make an impact. Deschamps will likely keep faith with the starters to breed confidence and consistency, so Desire Doue should keep his place on the left.

The Paris Saint-Germain star is still a little wet behind the ears at international level with only eight caps and two goals, but he never looks overawed and can outshine some of the bigger names against Iraq. Norway winger Antonio Nusa gave the Iraqi right-back a torrid time during his side’s 4-1 win in Boston and Doue can emulate that role by cutting in and firing off shots.

Maignan’s mood encourages BTTS bet

Doue is potentially better value in goalscorer markets than Mbappe, although it would take a brave bettor to back against him finding the net for a 15th time in World Cup finals.

Iraq caused Norway problems with an aggressive press and their ability to mop up second balls in midfield, but that won’t cause the French to flap. Their centre-backs are much better on the ball and their engine room far more powerful and physical.

However, France to win with both teams to score is still worth backing here because Mike Maignan seems short of confidence in Les Bleus’ goal. Deschamps’ side have not kept a clean sheet in six, although they have won five of those and can replicate Norway’s 4-1 win in Philly.