France delivered one of their best performances of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 4-1 victory over Norway, finishing top of Group I in style. While many fans expected a battle between Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, it was Ousmane Dembélé who stole the headlines with a sensational first-half hat-trick. �Reuters +1
Dembélé's Dream Night
Dembélé opened the scoring in the seventh minute before adding two more goals within the opening 32 minutes. His stunning hat-trick was one of the fastest in FIFA World Cup history and made him only the third French player to score a World Cup hat-trick, joining the legendary Just Fontaine and Mbappé. �
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Norway Fight Back, But France Stay in Control
Norway briefly responded through Thelo Aasgaard, who reduced the deficit after Dembélé's second goal. However, France remained dominant throughout the match, controlling possession and creating numerous chances.
In the second half, Norway had a golden opportunity to get back into the game, but Jørgen Strand Larsen's penalty was brilliantly saved by Mike Maignan. Deep into stoppage time, Désiré Doué added France's fourth goal to complete an emphatic victory. �
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Haaland and Ødegaard Rested
One of the biggest talking points before kickoff was Norway's decision to rest several key players, including Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, with both teams already assured of qualification for the knockout stage. The decision allowed France to take full advantage and secure first place in the group. �
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Key Match Highlights
France defeated Norway 4-1.
Ousmane Dembélé scored a stunning first-half hat-trick.
Thelo Aasgaard scored Norway's only goal.
Mike Maignan saved a crucial second-half penalty.
Désiré Doué sealed the win with a late goal.
France finished top of Group I with a perfect record. �
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What the Result Means
The victory confirms France as one of the strongest contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup title. With Dembélé, Mbappé and an attack full of confidence, Les Bleus head into the knockout rounds with serious momentum.
For Norway, despite the defeat, qualification for the next round means they still have everything to play for. They'll hope to welcome back their strongest lineup as the tournament enters its decisive stage. �
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