France's World Cup dreams were put on hold after they were denied a victory by Iceland in a thrilling 2-2 draw in Reykjavik. The two-time world champions needed a win to book an early spot in the 2026 World Cup, but Les Bleus had to settle for a point.
The visitors were left trailing at halftime after Victor Palsson gave Iceland the lead with a close-range finish following a free-kick. However, France fought back in the second half, with Christopher Nkunku equalizing midway through the period with a curling shot that found the bottom corner.
Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta made his mark on the match, scoring his first international goal on his first start for France. Mateta tapped in Maghnes Akliouche's low cross to give Les Bleus the lead, but Iceland refused to give up.
The hosts leveled the score in the 70th minute when substitute Kristian Hlynsson scored with his side's second shot on target, finishing off a well-executed counter-attack. The draw means France remain top of Group D but face a tougher test against Ukraine in their next match on November 13.
Ukraine are currently three points behind France in second place, having secured a 2-1 win over Azerbaijan thanks to Ruslan Malinovskyi's 64th-minute winner. A win against Ukraine will be crucial for France to secure their World Cup spot.
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