France’s World Cup clash with Iraq in Philadelphia, which was suspended for more than two hours due to severe thunderstorms, finally resumed on Monday night — and Kylian Mbappé wasted no time in making his mark.

The match was halted at 5:49 p.m. ET after lightning activity forced FIFA officials to suspend play and direct fans to shelter. At that point, France led 1-0 thanks to Mbappé’s first-half goal, assisted by Michael Olise. Play eventually restarted at 8:00 p.m. ET, marking the first weather-related suspension of this year’s tournament.

Once back underway, Mbappé added a second goal to extend France’s lead to 2-0, taking his World Cup tally to 16.

France won 3-0 with Kylian Mbappe scoring either side of the long delay before Ousmane Dembele added his first World Cup goal.

Mbappe, 27, has now scored 16 World Cup goals, meaning he is two short of the new all-time record of 18 set by Lionel Messi earlier on Monday.

The dramatic delay capped a stormy evening on the East Coast, where thunderstorm watches and flood advisories also threatened to disrupt Norway’s clash with Senegal in New Jersey.

France’s victory over Iraq now stands as one of the most memorable fixtures of the tournament so far — not only for Mbappé’s milestone chase but also for the rare weather interruption that reshaped the rhythm of the game.

Harare, Zimbabwe — Coca-Cola Zimbabwe has launched a nationwide campaign to bring the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ closer to fans, transforming everyday moments into unforgettable football celebrations.

Turning Zimbabwe Into a Football Hub

Running from June 1 to August 31, the campaign will deliver immersive fan experiences across retail outlets, entertainment venues, restaurants, and quick-service hubs. From interactive in-store activations to dynamic digital engagement, Coca-Cola is ensuring that Zimbabweans feel part of the world’s biggest sporting stage.

Fans stand a chance to win prizes including two Hyundai Grand i10 vehicles, cash, airtime, and more by purchasing participating Coca-Cola 300ml RGB packs with yellow caps.

Football as a Shared Emotion

Faith Nehanda, Senior Manager, Frontline Marketing for Coca-Cola East and Central Africa, emphasized the emotional power of football:

“Football is more than a game—it’s a shared emotion that brings billions of people together, especially during the FIFA World Cup 26™. This campaign is about harnessing the incredible energy and emotional highs and lows that only the FIFA World Cup can deliver, and turning them into real, meaningful connections.”

Fan Engagement Across Zimbabwe

The campaign is designed for all fans — from die-hard collectors of World Cup kits to casual supporters who enjoy highlights and the festive atmosphere. With the 2026 tournament introducing more teams, more players, and more matches than ever before, Coca-Cola is positioning itself as the essential companion for every fan, through every goal and every emotion.

Elevating the Sports Experience

By activating across retail and social spaces, Coca-Cola is not only refreshing fans but also elevating how Zimbabweans watch and celebrate football. Whether cheering in local bars, at home with family, or online with friends, the brand is ensuring that the World Cup spirit is felt nationwide.

A Celebration Beyond the Pitch

Coca-Cola’s campaign underscores its long-standing partnership with FIFA, spanning nearly five decades. More than just a beverage, Coca-Cola is presenting itself as a cultural connector — bringing Zimbabweans closer to the drama, passion, and unity that define the World Cup.

Coca-Cola, the official FIFA World Cup partner, has kicked off an exhilarating competition that gives local soccer fans the chance to drive away in a brand-new car while celebrating the world’s biggest sporting event.

From June 11 to July 19, 2026, local soccer lovers can sip, scan, and score big as the World Cup kicks off across 16 cities in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This historic edition will be the first to feature 48 teams and be jointly hosted by three nations.

How to Enter

• Buy any 300ML Coca-Cola with a yellow cap.
• Find the unique code under the cap.
• Scan the QR code or send “COKE” via WhatsApp to 0783313439 and follow the prompts to enter.

Prizes Up for Grabs

Fans stand a chance to win a brand-new car and many other exciting prizes.

Delta Beverages captured the spirit of the campaign on social media:

“Every celebration, every victory, every unforgettable moment deserves a refreshing Coke. As the official FIFA World Cup, Coca-Cola is bringing fans closer to the action. Buy, enter, and stand a chance to win a car and many more prizes.”

This competition is more than just about winning—it’s about savoring every goal, every cheer, and every unforgettable World Cup moment with an ice-cold Coca-Cola in hand.

Will you be the lucky fan driving away with the grand prize? Grab your yellow-cap Coke today and join the celebration!