France missed the chance to secure early qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being held to a 2-2 draw by Iceland, while Germany claimed a narrow 1-0 win over Northern Ireland.
Playing without injured captain Kylian Mbappé, France struggled to impose themselves in Reykjavik. After falling behind late in the first half, Christopher Nkunku equalized just after the hour mark. Moments later, Jean-Philippe Mateta scored his first senior international goal to put Les Bleus ahead. But Iceland responded almost immediately through Kristian Hlynsson, ensuring the points were shared.
The result ended France’s perfect run in qualifying and delayed their chance to confirm a spot at next year’s finals in North America. A win would have sealed their place if other results had gone their way, but they now face a decisive clash against Ukraine in November.
Elsewhere, Germany dominated Northern Ireland in Belfast but had to settle for a slender victory. Nick Woltemade’s header in the first half proved the difference, giving Germany three crucial points. Despite creating several chances after the break, the visitors failed to extend their lead. Northern Ireland nearly snatched an equalizer in the dying minutes but could not convert.
The evening’s results leave France still top of their group but under pressure to finish the job in their remaining fixtures. Germany, meanwhile, moved closer to securing their place at the 2026 World Cup, maintaining momentum with another solid performance.
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