France secured their World Cup last-32 berth with a game to spare as Kylian Mbappe's double powered a 3-0 win over Iraq in Philadelphia. The match will be remembered for a two-hour lightning delay at halftime — the tournament's first weather stoppage — but Didier Deschamps' side never lost control, extending their perfect start to six points from two Group I matches.

Mbappe struck either side of the interruption, taking his tournament tally to four and his all-time World Cup haul to 16, just two behind Lionel Messi. The opener came from 22 yards; the second arrived after a calamitous Iraqi back-pass involving Zaid Tahseen. Michael Olise then turned provider, driving forward before sliding Ousmane Dembele through for the third — the winger's first major tournament goal in his 20th appearance across World Cups and European Championships.

France now face Norway on Friday with top spot in their hands. A draw would guarantee first place and a potentially kinder knockout path. For Iraq, the defeat ends their campaign. Deschamps will welcome the minutes for his front three ahead of the business end, though the extended break tested rhythm in ways no opponent could.