France open their tournament against Senegal. Norway brings explosive European star power. France and Senegal have the history and edge to qualify
Two-time champions France and African heavyweights Senegal are favorites, facing a dangerous Norway and Asian representatives Iraq.
France will be competing at their 17th FIFA World Cup, with their best finishes being two trophy lifts in 1998 and 2018. The European powerhouse finished as runners-up at the last tournament in Qatar.
Iraq will be competing at their second World Cup, ending a 40-year drought since their lone appearance in 1986, where they failed to cross the group stage.
Senegal will be competing in their fourth World Cup, aiming to build on their round-of-16 finish from the last tournament in Qatar. Their best-ever finish was a historic quarter-final run in 2002.
Norway will be playing at their fourth FIFA World Cup, breaking a 28-year absence since they last competed in 1998. Their best run at the tournament was a round-of-16 finish achieved in 1938 and 1998.
The favorites to finish top two in this group are France and Senegal, while Norway may qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.
Groups A to L feature a mix of traditional heavyweights, historic rivalries, and four tournament debutants. Under the expanded 48-team format, the top two teams from each group plus the eight best third-place finishers will advance to the Round of 32.