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Last Updated:June 26, 2026, 13:52 IST
Norway and France have already reached the World Cup knockouts, but Group I supremacy is still up for grabs as Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé prepare for a blockbuster showdown.
(Credit: AP)
Two of Europe’s most exciting attacking teams go head-to-head as Norway take on France in a blockbuster Group I finale at the FIFA World Cup 2026, with first place in the group up for grabs.
Both nations have already secured qualification for the Round of 32 after winning their opening two matches, but finishing first could prove crucial by potentially delivering a more favourable knockout path.
Norway have enjoyed a dream return to the World Cup after a 28-year absence. Consecutive victories over Iraq and Senegal have underlined the progress of Ståle Solbakken’s side, with Erling Haaland leading the charge. The Manchester City striker has scored four goals in two games, including braces in both victories, as Norway have netted seven times already.
France have been every bit as impressive. Despite the absence of head coach Didier Deschamps on the touchline, Les Bleus have looked like genuine title contenders. Kylian Mbappé has once again stolen the headlines with four goals of his own, helping France edge ahead of Norway at the top of Group I on goal difference.
That means a draw would be enough for France to finish first, while Norway must win if they want to leapfrog the 2018 champions.
Team News
Norway are expected to stick with the attack-minded side that has served them so well in the opening two matches. Captain Martin Ødegaard will once again pull the strings in midfield, with Haaland spearheading a dangerous front three alongside Alexander Sørloth and Antonio Nusa.
France also have little reason to make major changes. Mbappé leads an attack packed with pace and creativity, supported by Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé and rising star Désiré Doué.
Norway predicted XI (4-3-3)
Nyland; Pedersen, Ajer, Heggem, Møller Wolfe; Ødegaard, Berge, Aursnes; Sørloth, Haaland, Nusa.
France predicted XI (4-2-3-1)
Maignan; Koundé, Upamecano, Lacroix, Theo Hernandez; Tchouaméni, Rabiot; Dembélé, Olise, Doué; Mbappé.
Match Prediction
This has all the ingredients of one of the standout matches of the group stage. With Haaland and Mbappé—arguably two of the world’s best forwards—leading the line, goals should not be in short supply.
Norway possess enough firepower to trouble any defence, but France’s depth, experience and attacking quality could prove decisive in what promises to be an entertaining contest.
Prediction: Norway 2-3 France
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About the Author
After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His...Read More
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