France vs. Iceland: Goal, Controversy, and Les Bleus' Reaction
Iceland struck first at the Parc des Princes with a goal that came after a defensive error by France; Andri Gudjohnsen took advantage of the turnover to score in the 22nd minute. The goal was surprising in its way: a failed break in his own half left the Icelandic striker with space and a chance to finish. The incident sparked debate about Les Bleus' defensive concentration in the opening minutes of the match.
Gudjohnsen and Michael Olise: The Origin of Shock
The play that ended in a goal began with a poor clearance by Michael Olise inside the box, under pressure from the opposing attack; the loss led to the pass to Gudjohnsen and the finish in front of Maignan. It was Andri Gudjohnsen's seventh official goal for his national team, a tally that places him in a prominent position among young Icelandic forwards. The incident had the greatest impact during the first half.
Olafsson and the six saves that kept Iceland in the lead
The Icelandic goalkeeper sustained his team in the first half with key interventions, making several important saves to deny shots from players like Koné, Mbappé, and Thuram. This performance kept Iceland ahead until the end of the first half and forced France to insist on more precise attacks.
Kylian Mbappé: penalty, record, and assist
France equalized from the spot in first-half stoppage time, and with that goal, Kylian Mbappé added another goal to his all-time tally for the national team. That tally put him above Thierry Henry in the French scoring charts, according to official records and live coverage. In the second half, Mbappé also provided the assist that culminated in Barcola's final 2-1.
Final stretch: the comeback and the closing of the match
After the break, France increased their intensity, found space, and capitalized on their advantage to turn things around. Their introduction of offensive variations and persistence on the wings ultimately broke down Iceland's resistance, which nonetheless fought until the very end. The result reflected the home side's response and left several points for tactical analysis.
