France’s World Cup match against Iraq was suspended at half time on Tuesday because of severe weather conditions in Philadelphia.
FIFA confirmed that the Group I clash had entered “severe weather mode” after lightning activity was detected near the stadium. Players and officials were kept off the field as organizers monitored the situation.
Before the stoppage, France had taken the lead through Kylian Mbappe.
The French captain fired a powerful left footed shot from outside the box to put his side ahead. It was Mbappe’s third goal of the 2026 World Cup.
The goal also moved the 27 year old closer to another major milestone. Mbappe now has 15 World Cup goals in his career and is just three behind the all time record of 18 set earlier in the tournament by Lionel Messi.
France were in control at the break and looked on course for a second straight win after beating Senegal 3-1 in their opening match.
The weather delay came after forecasts warned of thunderstorms and lightning in the Philadelphia area. FIFA officials will decide when it is safe for the match to resume.
A victory would secure France a place in the knockout stage, while Iraq are still searching for their first points of the tournament.
