Iceland's defender #04 Victor Palsson (L) falls over France's forward #13 Jean-Philippe Mateta during the 2026 World Cup qualifying round Group D football match between Iceland and France at the Laugardalsvollur Stadium in Reykjavik on October 13, 2025. FRANCK FIFE / AFP
Jean-Philippe Mateta scored his first goal for France, but Les Bleus were held to a 2-2 draw by Iceland in a 2026 World Cup qualifier on Monday, October 13. World Cup winners in 2018 and runners-up in 2022, France could have clinched qualification for next year's tournament in North America with a win in Reykjavik combined with Ukraine failing to beat Azerbaijan at the same time.
In the end, Ukraine defeated Azerbaijan 2-1, while Didier Deschamps' side dropped points for the first time in four outings in qualifying Group D.
Victor Palsson's goal had Iceland ahead at half-time, but Christopher Nkunku equalized for France before Crystal Palace striker Mateta gave them the lead midway through the second half. However, Kristian Hlynsson quickly restored parity, keeping Iceland's own hopes of qualification alive.
France are three points clear at the top of the section with two games remaining next month, and a win at home to second-placed Ukraine in Paris will wrap up top spot.
