France missed out on a chance to reach the 2026 World Cup with two qualifying matches to spare as the two-time world champions were held to a thrilling 2-2 draw in Iceland.

Les Bleus, who remain top of Group D, needed to beat Iceland and hope Ukraine dropped points against Azerbaijan to book an early place in the North American tournament next summer.

They trailed at half-time after defender Victor Palsson had given Iceland a shock lead when he poked in from close range following a free-kick.

The visitors hit back midway through the second half as former Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku found the bottom corner with a fine curling finish.

And, on his first start for France, Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta then gave his side the lead with his first international goal when he tapped in Maghnes Akliouche's low cross.

But Iceland rescued a draw as substitute Kristian Hlynsson scored with his side's second shot on target to finish off a crisp counter-attack in the 70th minute in Reykjavik.

Ukraine are three points behind France in second after Genoa midfielder Ruslan Malinovskyi scored a 64th-minute winner to beat Azerbaijan 2-1.

France can reach the World Cup if they beat Ukraine in their next match on November 13.