Group I is one of the most exciting groups at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, featuring world-class stars, experienced managers, and three teams with genuine ambitions of reaching the knockout rounds.
France enter the tournament as the group favorites and one of the leading contenders to lift the World Cup trophy. However, Senegal and Norway both possess enough quality to challenge Les Bleus, while Iraq return to the World Cup for the first time since 1986 hoping to cause an upset.
At FootyFeed, our team has analyzed all four nations ahead of what promises to be a fascinating battle for qualification.
Group I Teams
| Team | World Cup Status |
|---|---|
| France | Two-time World Champions |
| Senegal | Fourth World Cup Appearance |
| Norway | First World Cup Since 1998 |
| Iraq | First World Cup Since 1986 |
Why France Are the Favorites
France enter Group I with arguably one of the strongest squads in the entire tournament. Didier Deschamps is managing his final tournament before stepping down after the World Cup, adding extra motivation to an already talented squad.
Les Bleus boast elite quality in every area of the pitch. Kylian Mbappe remains the team’s superstar, while players such as Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, William Saliba, Theo Hernandez, and Mike Maignan provide world-class support.
The French are also among the most experienced teams in international football, having won the World Cup in 2018 and reached the final again in 2022.
Everything points toward France finishing top of Group I.
Norway Look Like France’s Biggest Challenger
Norway return to the World Cup for the first time since 1998 and arrive with one of the most exciting attacking units in the tournament.
Erling Haaland headlines the squad after scoring 16 goals in just eight qualifying matches, while Martin Odegaard, Antonio Nusa, and Alexander Sorloth provide additional firepower.
Manager Stale Solbakken has built a disciplined and dangerous side capable of troubling any opponent.
Many analysts view Norway as the strongest challenger to France and the team most likely to secure second place in the group.
Senegal and Iraq Face Different Challenges
Senegal arrive at their fourth World Cup with renewed optimism following the return of Sadio Mane to the national team setup. The Lions of Teranga remain one of Africa’s strongest sides and possess a balanced squad featuring Edouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly, Ismaila Sarr, and Boulaye Dia.
The key question is whether Senegal can consistently compete with France and Norway over three group matches.
Iraq, meanwhile, are making their first World Cup appearance in forty years. Qualification itself represented a major achievement, but the level of competition in Group I presents a huge challenge.
While Iraq have experienced players such as Aymen Hussein and Jalal Hassan, they enter the tournament as clear underdogs.
Key Players to Watch
Kylian Mbappe (France)
Mbappe remains the face of French football and one of the most dangerous players in the world. The Real Madrid superstar enters the tournament as France’s captain and biggest attacking weapon.
Sadio Mane (Senegal)
Mane returned to the national team setup in 2026 and remains Senegal’s all-time leading scorer. His experience and leadership will be vital if Senegal hope to challenge for qualification.
Erling Haaland (Norway)
Few players enter the tournament in better scoring form than Haaland. The Manchester City striker scored 16 goals during qualifying and could become one of the stars of World Cup 2026.
Aymen Hussein (Iraq)
The Iraqi captain remains his country’s main attacking threat and played a crucial role in helping Iraq qualify for the tournament.
Group I Winner Prediction
France possess the deepest squad, the greatest tournament experience, and arguably the strongest attack in the group.
Norway have the quality to push them, while Senegal should remain competitive throughout the group stage.
However, over three matches, France simply appear too strong.
Predicted Group I Standings
| Position | Team |
|---|---|
| 1 | France |
| 2 | Norway |
| 3 | Senegal |
| 4 | Iraq |
Best Bet
✅ France to Win Group I
France combine elite talent, major tournament experience, and exceptional squad depth, making them the safest selection to finish top of the group.
Final Verdict
Group I is likely to produce some of the most entertaining matches of the group stage.
France remain deserved favorites, but Norway’s attacking quality and Senegal’s experience ensure the battle for qualification will be highly competitive. Iraq may find life difficult but could still influence the outcome of the group.
At FootyFeed, our team expects France to finish first, with Norway narrowly edging Senegal in the race for second place.
Final Prediction
🏆 France to Win Group I
🥈 Norway to Finish Second
🥉 Senegal to Finish Third
4️⃣ Iraq to Finish Fourth
