2026 World Cup Day 6 Preview: France Faces Senegal; Iraq Meets Norway; Argentina Battles Algeria; Austria Takes on Jordan

France vs. Senegal

France returns to the field after finishing as runners-up in the last tournament and claiming the title four years before that. Their World Cup history is a patchwork of triumphs and disappointments, with wins in 1998 and 2018 but no victories in 2010 and 2022. Not qualifying at all in 1990 and 1994 adds to the rollercoaster ride.

Senegal delivered a stunning upset against France in 2002, sparking their run to the quarterfinals. Four years ago, they made it to the Round of 16. This year, the team brings the momentum of having won the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year, despite later losing the title due to an administrative ruling. Their talent and drive remain unquestioned.

Date and Time: Tuesday, June 16, 2026, 3pm EDT / 8pm BSTVenue: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ, USAReferee: Alireza Faghani (Iran)Broadcast: FOX, Telemundo (USA); BBC One (UK)

Chelsea fans will spot Malo Gusto, who has become a regular for France under coach Didier Deschamps. N'Golo Kanté has returned to the squad after a stint away from Europe, now playing for Fenerbahçe on loan. Senegal counters with Kalidou Koulibaly, Édouard Mendy, and Nicolas Jackson, whose unpredictable style could be decisive. Mamadou Sarr’s recall from Strasbourg also adds strength to Senegal’s defense.

Iraq vs. Norway

Iraq's World Cup appearances are limited to a tough 1986 outing where they lost all three matches. Norway's history includes a Round of 16 spot in 1998, but recent tournaments have been scarce. This year, attention turns to Erling Haaland, making his World Cup debut and sparking hope among supporters.

Date and Time: Tuesday, June 16, 2026, 6pm EDT / 11pm BSTVenue: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA, USAReferee: Pierre Atcho (Gabon)Broadcast: FOX, Telemundo (USA); BBC One (UK)

No current or former Chelsea players appear on these teams. A past pursuit of Norway’s Antonio Nusa did not materialize; he remains with RB Leipzig for now.

Argentina vs. Algeria

Argentina aims to match Brazil's feat from 1962 by defending their World Cup title. With 17 players returning from their previous campaign, the squad boasts continuity. Ángel Di María’s retirement marks the most notable change.

The shock loss to Saudi Arabia at the 2022 opener still lingers, so Argentina likely won't panic even if Algeria challenges them fiercely.

Date and Time: Tuesday, June 16, 2026, 9pm EDT / 2am BST (next day)Venue: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO, USAReferee: Szymon Marciniak (Poland)Broadcast: FOX, Telemundo (USA); ITV 1 (UK)

Chelsea interest lies with Enzo Fernández and Valentín Barco, with Barco yet to officially join Chelsea, while Fernández remains part of Argentina's lineup. Lionel Messi continues to be a presence on the pitch as well.

Austria vs. Jordan

This matchup could surprise with its excitement. Austria impressed at the last Euros, reaching the round of 16, while Jordan were runners-up at the Asian Cup in 2023. Jordan fields only one player based in Europe, adding intrigue.

Date and Time: Tuesday, June 16, 2026, 9pm PDT / 5am BST (next day)Venue: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA, USAReferee: Dahane Beida (Mauritania)Broadcast: FOX Sports 1, Telemundo (USA); BBC One (UK)

Former Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka now represents Austria after switching allegiance earlier this year. Born in Vienna and raised in England, he has featured three times for Austria and enjoyed a healthy season with Borussia Dortmund, appearing in 38 matches.