World Cup 2026: What France & Iraq did during two-hour weather delay

“We’ve been through a lot tonight,” shouted the stadium announcer during a weather delay that lasted more than two hours during the match between France and Iraq.

It was a tough night for players, coaches and all 68,344 fans at Philadelphia Stadium.

The match, which started at 17.00 local time, ended at 20.47 due to security concerns due to adverse weather conditions.

Canadian referee Drew Fischer said at 17:49 that France was leading 1-0. Storm clouds were starting to form at halftime of the match.

Later, there was a danger of heavy rain and thunderstorms in the region.

It was 20:00 when it was finally deemed safe enough to continue.

Trying to make up for the lost time, France scored two more goals and won 3-0, while captain Kylian Mbappe scored a double goal in his 100th international match, ensuring Les Bleus advanced to the last 32.

There was no hydration break in the second half, but there was only two minutes of extra time at the end.

“It was a very long evening,” Mbappe said.

“We spent a lot of time waiting. It was emotionally and mentally draining because we had to be completely focused and engaged in the locker room.

“It’s very difficult to stay in the locker room for an hour and a half – almost two hours – while maintaining focus. It takes a lot. The players and staff made a great effort.”

So what did they do about the delay?

“We played cards,” joked French coach Didier Deschamps.

“No, we were waiting. We had slots that were pushed forward again.

“I was actually having a good time and having fun with my players.

“This is a safety issue. You can’t fight against rain and lightning.

“It doesn’t bother me. These are very special cases and I hope it doesn’t happen again. It was important not to take risks.”