Iceland Stuns France with 2-2 Draw, Halting Their Perfect World Cup Qualifying Run

The 2026 FIFA World Cup European qualifiers witnessed a dramatic encounter as Iceland held France to a 2-2 draw in Reykjavik on October 13, 2025, ending the French side's previously perfect start in Group D.

France, the 2018 World Cup winners and 2022 runners-up, had been on a flawless streak with three consecutive victories and an opportunity to secure early qualification for the 2026 World Cup set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. However, the resilient Icelandic team managed to salvage a late equalizer, preserving their hopes of qualification.

Victor Palsson put Iceland ahead in the first half, capitalizing on one of their limited opportunities. Christopher Nkunku then equalized for France, followed by Jean-Philippe Mateta scoring his first goal for Les Bleus to give France a 2-1 advantage. Nevertheless, Kristian Hlynsson swiftly responded for Iceland, restoring parity and denying France the win.

Despite missing key players, including captain Kylian Mbappé due to an ankle injury suffered in the prior match, France controlled much of the game. Coach Didier Deschamps commented on the team's performance: "We totally controlled the game. Iceland had two shots on target and scored two goals. But we have another point on the board and next month will be decisive." He expressed frustration over the way the second goal was conceded, noting the team switched off after doing the hard part.

The result leaves France at the top of Group D with 10 points from four matches, three points ahead of Ukraine, who won 2-1 against Azerbaijan in a concurrent fixture. This upcoming head-to-head in Paris on November 13 is anticipated to be crucial in deciding the group's winner and direct qualification to the World Cup, which for the first time will feature an expanded field of 48 teams.

Iceland’s spirited performance keeps their own qualification hopes alive, making the remainder of the group stage highly competitive.

Other notable results from the qualifiers on the same day included Germany's 1-0 victory over Northern Ireland, Slovakia's 2-0 win against Luxembourg, and Belgium's 4-2 triumph at Wales, featuring two goals from Kevin De Bruyne.

This draw marks an important moment for both teams as France aims to bounce back and secure their place at the World Cup, while Iceland seeks to build on this significant result.