Group I is not an entirely unbalanced "single-core group," but the structure is clear: France leads as the FIFA No. 2, followed by Senegal at No. 18, Norway at No. 31, and Iraq at No. 58. Based on paper strength, France is the seeded team, and the real suspense lies in the battle for second and third place.
France has won four of its last five matches, losing only to Ivory Coast, and is in the most stable form. Senegal has recorded two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five, including a 2-0 victory over Peru and a 2-3 loss to the United States. Norway also has two wins, two draws, and one loss, including a 4-1 win over Italy, showing decent momentum. Iraq has one win, one draw, and three losses in their last five; although they drew 1-1 with Spain, they are the most inconsistent overall.
The key schedule is concentrated at both ends: France vs. Senegal on June 16, Norway vs. Senegal on June 23, and Norway vs. France on June 26; Iraq must face France on June 22, followed by Senegal on June 26. Senegal is a dark horse candidate, while Iraq is the weakest link.
The final outcome of this group will depend heavily on the direct head-to-head results between the top three teams and who can convert their matches against Iraq into consistent points.