Thunderstorms and the risk of isolated tornadoes threaten to delay France’s World Cup clash against Iraq in Philadelphia tonight, as Tunisia became the third team eliminated from the tournament after a heavy defeat to Japan.
A NEXT weather alert has been issued for the Philadelphia area on Monday, with the afternoon and evening forecast to bring severe thunderstorms. “Several thunderstorms are expected to become severe, with damaging winds, intense lightning, and a risk of isolated tornadoes,” CBS News reported, putting the match at Lincoln Financial Field in jeopardy.
“France vs Iraq could be delayed by severe weather; Tunisia eliminated after 4-0 defeat to Japan.”
The disruption comes as Tunisia’s hopes of progress were crushed by a 4-0 rout at the hands of Japan in Group F. The defeat leaves the north African side with two losses from two matches and no points on the board, meaning they cannot advance to the knockout rounds regardless of their final group game against the Netherlands.
Elsewhere, Lionel Messi endured a rare setback for Argentina, missing a penalty in their match against Austria. The defending champions are seeking a second consecutive win in the tournament, but the miss added a moment of drama to their campaign.
The day’s events have thrown a spotlight on the unpredictability of the 2026 World Cup, with weather delays, stunning upsets, and individual errors all shaping the narrative. For France, a victory over Iraq would secure their place in the round of 32 after an opening win against Senegal, but first they must hope the storms pass.