Mansion Sports – A thrilling clash awaits in the 2026 FIFA World Cup European Qualifiers Group D as France faces Iceland at Parc des Princes in Paris. 

The highly anticipated fixture is scheduled for Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 20:45 local time.

Both teams secured victories in their opening matches, raising expectations for a high-stakes battle under the Paris lights. 

Ahead of kickoff, Mansion Sports presents the predicted lineups for France vs Iceland in the World Cup Qualifiers.

France Seeking Consistency, Iceland Chasing an Upset

France began their qualifying campaign with a 2-0 victory over Ukraine. However, despite the result, their defensive performance raised concerns. 

Ukraine created four clear scoring chances, including one effort that struck the crossbar, sparking renewed doubts about Didier Deschamps’ tactical approach and his ability to fully harness a squad packed with world-class talent.

Since his appointment in 2012, Deschamps has delivered only one major trophy. While Les Bleus have remained competitive—reaching the 2022 World Cup final, the Euro 2024 semifinals, and finishing third in the 2024–2025 Nations League—many continue to expect greater dominance from this golden generation.

Iceland, meanwhile, delivered a resounding 5-0 win over Azerbaijan. Although they faced some difficulties in the first half, they completely shut down their opponents in the second, not allowing a single shot on goal. 

Despite this impressive form, history paints a tough picture: in 15 meetings with France, Iceland has never managed a victory.

Under new coach Arnar Gunnlaugsson, who took charge in January 2025, Iceland has recorded two wins in their last three games, bringing fresh energy to the squad. 

Yet, their struggles away from home remain evident, with three defeats in their last four away fixtures.

Predicted Lineups for France vs Iceland in World Cup Qualifiers

France (4-2-3-1)

• Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
• Defenders: Jules Kounde, Ibrahima Konate, Dayot Upamecano, Lucas Digne
• Midfielders: Aurelien Tchouameni, Manu Kone
• Attacking Midfielders: Hugo Ekitike, Michael Olise, Bradley Barcola
• Forward: Kylian Mbappe
• Coach: Didier Deschamps

Iceland (3-4-3)

• Goalkeeper: Hakon Valdimarsson Olafsson
• Defenders: Birkir Saevarsson Palsson, Holmar Orn Ingason, Daniel Gretarsson
• Midfielders: Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson, Isak Thor Thordarson, Kristian Hlynsson Johannesson, Alfons Sampsted Ellertsson
• Forwards: Orri Oskarsson Haraldsson, Andri Gudjohnsen, Albert Gudmundsson
• Coach: Arnar Gunnlaugsson

Conclusion

The France vs Iceland encounter promises to be an exciting showdown. France, with its depth and experience, remains the clear favorite, but Iceland arrives with confidence after their emphatic opening win.

With the predicted lineups set, the stage is ready: will France maintain consistency and strengthen their campaign, or can Iceland deliver a stunning upset in Paris?