Iceland Hold France to 2-2 Draw in World Cup Qualifier

Key Takeaways:

• Iceland and France finished level at 2:2 in their 2026 World Cup qualifier
• Viktor Palsson opened the scoring for Iceland in the 39th minute, while Kristjan Hlynsson netted the equaliser shortly after France went ahead
• France’s hopes for early qualification were postponed as their winning streak came to an end

Match Overview

Iceland and France played out an enthralling 2:2 draw in their Group D clash of the 2026 World Cup European qualification campaign. The hosts struck first just before half-time through Viktor Palsson in the 39th minute. Despite initially trailing, France responded strongly in the second half with Christopher Nkunku levelling the score twenty-four minutes after the interval. Jean-Philippe Mateta swiftly gave France the lead in the 68th minute, but Iceland responded almost immediately as Kristjan Hlynsson struck to restore parity, denying Les Bleus the three points and maintaining suspense in the race for World Cup qualification.

Iceland earn a draw against France ⚡️#WCQ pic.twitter.com/HJen4sygDh

— UEFA EURO (@UEFAEURO) October 13, 2025

First-Half Action

Both teams displayed attacking intent from the outset. France created notable opportunities through Nkunku and Mateta, but the Icelandic goalkeeper, Elias Olafsson, produced several crucial saves to keep his side in the contest. The deadlock was broken in the 39th minute when Palsson capitalised on a defensive lapse from a free kick to send the home side into the lead going into the break.

Second-Half Drama

After half-time, France increased their attacking pressure and were quickly rewarded as Nkunku drew his side level with a precise effort from the edge of the penalty box in the 63rd minute. Five minutes later, manager Didier Deschamps introduced Aklouche for Thauvin, a substitution which quickly paid dividends as Aklouche assisted Mateta who made it 2:1 for the visitors.

Iceland, however, demonstrated grit and determination, and almost immediately after conceding, responded through Hlynsson, whose goal once again levelled proceedings. That dramatic sequence ensured the encounter ended with honours even, breaking France’s run in the group and ensuring that qualification for the World Cup remains undecided in Group D.

Key Match Events

Implications for Group D

This result preserves the competitive balance in Group D, as France remain without the early qualification they sought while Iceland boost their hopes by securing a point. Both nations will look to build on this performance in their upcoming fixtures as the European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup continue.