Didier Deschamps Sticks with Winning Formula Against Iraq

Didier Deschamps is not in the mood for experiments. After watching his France side brush aside Senegal 3-1 in their FIFA World Cup opener, the national team coach is expected to keep faith with the same core when Les Bleus face Iraq on Monday evening, according to L’Équipe.

Deschamps backs his winning formula

France took a while to find their stride against Les Lions de la Teranga. The first half was flat, short on tempo and ideas, and Deschamps made his feelings clear in the dressing room. The response was emphatic.

His players emerged transformed, playing with sharper movement, quicker passing and far greater aggression. The shift in intensity turned the match on its head, and France struck three times after the break to take control of the group.

That second‑half surge has given Deschamps little incentive to rip anything up. L’Équipe reports that no “major” changes are expected, a clear sign that the manager believes the structure and personnel that finished the game against Senegal can carry the job into the clash with Iraq.

Tweaks are always possible — a fresh pair of legs here, a different option off the flank there — but the spine that delivered that convincing win looks set to remain in place.

Clean bill of health boosts selection options

The medical bulletin only strengthens that stance. France emerged from the Senegal game without any new fitness problems, a rare luxury in a tournament environment where matches come thick and fast.

Malo Gusto and William Saliba are still being managed carefully, both undergoing treatment for their individual issues. Their situations are being monitored, yet there is no suggestion of a serious setback from the opening fixture.

For Deschamps, it means almost a full squad at his disposal and, crucially, no need to reshuffle out of necessity. Any adjustment against Iraq will be by design, not forced by injury.

France have their rhythm, their result, and their health. Now comes the test of whether continuity can turn a strong start into a statement of intent.