FOXBOROUGH , MA – June 26, 2026 — France delivered a commanding performance, defeating Norway 4-1 at Gillette Stadium to top Group I and secure a favorable path into the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ousmane Dembélé was the star of the show, netting a stunning first-half hat-trick (7′, 20′, 32′) that left Norway reeling. Kylian Mbappé was heavily involved, notably assisting one of Dembélé’s goals and hitting the crossbar within the first 25 seconds of the match.
Norway pulled one back through Thelo Aasgaard in the 21st minute, but France’s attacking flair proved too much. Substitute Désiré Doué added a fourth goal in stoppage time (90+4′) to seal the convincing victory.
Key Match Stats
- Final Score: Norway 1-4 France
- Goals:
- France: Dembélé (7′, 20′, 32′), Doué (90+4′)
- Norway: Aasgaard (21′)
- France dominated possession and created high-quality chances, with xG figures reflecting their control (around 1.69 for France vs. 1.31 for Norway).
Both teams had already qualified for the Round of 32 before this match, but the result means France finish top of Group I with a superior goal difference, while Norway take second place.
France, the tournament favorites, showcased their depth and attacking potency even without relying solely on Mbappé’s finishing. Dembélé’s clinical display will boost confidence heading into the knockouts. Norway showed resilience but were ultimately outclassed by Les Bleus’ star power.
The match lived up to the pre-game hype of a Haaland vs. Mbappé showdown, though France’s collective strength and Dembélé’s brilliance stole the spotlight.
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