Does Michael Olise play today? France vs Iraq at the 2026 FIFA World Cup By Janderson Luiz
2 min read
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Michael Olise appears as one of France’s main highlights this Monday (22) against Iraq, in the second round of Group I of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The attacking midfielder, with game vision and precise finishing, should play alongside Kylian Mbappé at the Lincoln Financial Field, in Philadelphia, from 6pm (Brasília time).
After the 3-1 victory over Senegal in the debut, Didier Deschamps counts on Olise to create chances and unbalance the Iraqi defense. His ability to play centrally or on the flanks perfectly complements the French attack, which is looking for yet another convincing performance.
Iraq, which lost in the opening, must defend itself as a compact bloc. Olise and company need patience to break through and turn superiority into goals. A victory practically guarantees a place in the round of 16.
Olise in the French attack
France should take to the field in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Mike Maignan in goal. Defensive line with Jules Koundé, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano and Lucas Digne. Midfield with Adrien Rabiot and Manu Koné. In attack, Olise, Ousmane Dembélé (or Bradley Barcola) and Mbappé form the attacking trio.
For Iraq, the 4-4-2 has Jalal Hassan in goal, Hussein Ali, Zaid Tahseen, Akam Hashem and Merchas Doski in defense. Amir Al-Ammari, Ibrahim Bayesh and strikers Aymen Hussein and Ali Al-Hamadi try to counterattack.
Olise and the Group I scenario
France and Norway have 3 points each in Group I. Olise could be the maestro that helps France take the lead alone. His partnership with Mbappé has been showing promise and could yield great moments in this match. It is the first meeting between the teams in World Cups.
The French attacking midfielder has the technical quality to decide games against closed teams, exploiting filtered passes and medium-range shots.
Streaming and Game Details
The match will be broadcast live on CazéTV on YouTube, with options on Betano and Prime Video. Referee Drew Fischer referees the duel at Lincoln Financial Field.
