The France vs Iceland World Cup qualifier produced a tense battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats. On September 9, 2025, in Paris, France overcame a difficult start to secure a 2-1 victory. The result not only extended their unbeaten home run in World Cup qualifiers but also strengthened their control at the top of Group D.
Iceland Strike First
France entered the game as heavy favorites, but Iceland had other ideas. The visitors capitalized on a defensive mistake in the 17th minute when Andri Lucas Gudjohnsen pounced on a loose ball and fired past goalkeeper Mike Maignan. The shock goal silenced the home crowd and forced Les Bleus to reset their approach.
Mbappé Levels the Score
Despite falling behind, France responded with intensity. Kylian Mbappé, wearing the captain’s armband, constantly tested Iceland’s back line with his pace and movement. Just before halftime, Marcus Thuram was brought down inside the penalty area, giving France the chance to equalize. Mbappé stepped up confidently and buried the spot kick, leveling the match at 1-1.
That goal shifted momentum firmly in France’s favor as they headed into the break.
Red Card Changes the Game
The second half brought even more drama. Aurélien Tchouaméni received a straight red card for a reckless challenge, reducing France to ten men with nearly half an hour to play. Iceland sensed an opportunity to snatch a famous result, pressing higher and forcing France deeper into their half.
However, Les Bleus showed resilience. Didier Deschamps adjusted his tactics, instructing his midfield to sit deeper while relying on counters through Mbappé’s speed.
Barcola Delivers the Winner
In the 62nd minute, the breakthrough arrived. Mbappé surged down the left, skipped past his marker, and squared the ball for Bradley Barcola, who tapped home from close range. The finish gave France a 2-1 lead and highlighted the team’s ability to respond under pressure.
Although Iceland pushed hard for another equalizer, they were denied in stoppage time when Gudjohnsen thought he had scored his second. VAR intervened and ruled the goal out due to a foul on Ibrahima Konaté during the build-up.
Why This Win Matters
The result keeps France perfect in their qualifying campaign with six points from two matches. It also reinforces their dominance at home, where they have not lost a World Cup qualifier in over three decades. For Iceland, the defeat leaves them playing catch-up in Group D, although their spirited performance suggests they could still compete for a playoff spot.
Player Reactions
After the match, Mbappé praised his teammates for their composure under pressure. “We stayed calm even when things were difficult. Playing with ten men is never easy, but we showed belief and discipline,” he said.
Coach Didier Deschamps echoed those sentiments, crediting the players for adapting to adversity. “Iceland are always tough opponents. What matters most is the character we displayed when it mattered,” he explained.
Conculsion
The France vs Iceland clash demonstrated why Les Bleus remain one of the world’s most resilient sides. A blend of individual brilliance from Mbappé and collective discipline allowed them to secure all three points despite setbacks. As the qualifiers progress, France’s depth and fighting spirit could make the difference in securing another World Cup.
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