World Cup Group I: Odds to Win, Qualify

Dylan Wilkerson Sports Betting Expert

16 minute read

Updated on 4/21/26

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The World Cup is slated to start on June 11th, 2026. Here are the latest World Cup Group I winner odds and odds for Group I teams to qualify for the knockout round.

Updated on 4/21/26

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Odds to Win Group I

• France (67%)
• Norway (24%)
• Senegal (7%)
• Iraq (<1%)

Odds to Advance Out of Group I

• France (88%)
• Norway (84%)
• Senegal (74%)
• Iraq (36%)

Group I Team Previews

1. France

"Les Bleus" arrive as one of the most balanced and deepest squads in the tournament. Having reached two consecutive finals in 2018 and 2022, the French are looking to reclaim their crown with a squad that is a perfect mix of veteran experience and terrifying young pace.

• How They Qualified: France qualified as the winners of UEFA Group D, securing their ticket to North America with a clinical victory over Greece in November 2025.
• Team Overview: France is the ultimate "tournament team." Under Didier Deschamps, they prioritize a solid defensive shape and lightning-fast transitions. They don't need much possession to hurt you; their ability to score from almost any situation makes them the heavy favorites to top Group I.
• Star Players:
  • Kylian Mbappé: The captain and arguably the best player in the world. His speed and finishing are the primary threats that every defense in Group I will fear.
  • Antoine Griezmann: The tactical heart of the team. His work rate, playmaking, and experience in high-pressure matches are vital for France’s cohesion.

2. Senegal

The "Lions of Teranga" remain Africa’s most consistent side. After a strong showing in 2022, they are looking to go even further in 2026 with a squad that boasts European-level quality in every department.

• How They Qualified: Senegal dominated CAF Group B, finishing as undefeated winners to secure their spot in October 2025.
• Team Overview: Senegal is a physically imposing and technically gifted team. They are famously organized at the back and possess a midfield that can go toe-to-toe with the world's best. They will be looking for a repeat of their historic 2002 opening-day upset against France when the two meet in the group stage.
• Star Players:
  • Sadio Mané: The veteran leader and all-time great. Even as he ages, his movement and big-game temperament make him Senegal's most dangerous offensive weapon.
  • Nicolas Jackson: A rising star in the Premier League who provides the youthful energy and clinical finishing that has revitalized the Senegalese attack.

3. Norway

The "Løvene" (Lions) have ended their long drought and returned to the World Cup for the first time since 1998. They are the group’s "wildcard" because they possess a player capable of scoring against anyone at any time.

• How They Qualified: Norway won UEFA Group I, edging out regional rivals in a high-scoring campaign that saw them clinch their berth in late 2025.
• Team Overview: Norway is a team that plays to its strengths. They are physically strong, disciplined, and rely on a high-tempo game. Their strategy is often built around creating high-quality service for their superstar striker, but they have developed a technical midfield that can now control games against lesser opponents.
• Star Players:
  • Erling Haaland: The most prolific striker in modern football. His physical dominance and record-breaking scoring ability make Norway a threat to win every game they play.
  • Martin Ødegaard: The visionary captain. His passing range and ability to dictate the play are what allow Haaland to find the spaces he needs.

4. Iraq

The "Lions of Mesopotamia" return to the World Cup for the first time since 1986. They represent the resilient spirit of Asian football and enter the tournament as a team that thrives on being underestimated.

• How They Qualified: Iraq secured their spot as the Inter-confederation Play-off Path 2 winners, defeating their opponents in March 2026 to book the final ticket from the AFC region.
• Team Overview: Iraq is a hard-working, defensive-minded team that excels in the "underdog" role. They are technically sound and rely on a strong collective identity. While they lack the individual star power of France or Norway, their tactical discipline and passion make them a very difficult side to break down.
• Star Players:
  • Aymen Hussein: A powerful striker who is an aerial specialist and the focal point of Iraq's offensive play.
  • Ali Jasim: A highly-rated young talent who provides the creative spark and dribbling ability needed to unlock defenses on the counter-attack.

Dylan Wilkerson

Dylan Wilkerson has over 5 years of experience reporting and analyzing the sports betting industry for various sites. His portfolio includes work for SportsHandle and Action Network, in addition to VegasInsider. His favorite sports are the NFL, College Football, The PGA Tour, the LIV Tour, and Cricket. Dylan has a broad and deep understanding of various sports-related topics. More from Dylan Wilkerson