The World Cup Group I match between France and Iraq in Philadelphia was suspended at half-time on Monday after organisers issued a severe weather alert and told spectators to seek shelter from an approaching thunderstorm. A FIFA official said the game, which kicked off at 2100 GMT, would be delayed for at least half an hour — a pause that includes the scheduled 15-minute half-time interval.
France led 1-0 at the break after Kylian Mbappe scored in the 14th minute. The match began in dry conditions but rain moved in late in the first half, prompting officials to take the precaution of halting play to protect fans and players.
Supporters were instructed as soon as the half-time whistle blew to “exit the open seating area and seek shelter in covered areas of the stadium,” according to the report. The delay was described by FIFA as a temporary safety measure while the severe weather passed. — AFP
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/france-vs-iraq-fifa-world-cup-match-live-updates-june-22-2026/article71134889.ece
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Publish Date: 2026-06-23 06:15:00
