In a commanding performance, France triumphed over Norway with a score of 4-1, propelled by Ousmane Dembele's extraordinary hat-trick, all scored in the first half. This victory not only secures France's place in the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup but also positions them as the leaders of Group I.

The match, held at Foxborough Stadium in Boston, USA, saw Dembele find the net in the 7th, 20th, and 32nd minutes. Despite Norway managing to score once through Thelo Aasgaard in the 21st minute, the French team maintained control throughout the match. Desire Doue capped off the scoring with a header in stoppage time, sealing the impressive win for the reigning runners-up.

Originally anticipated as a showdown between Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, Norway's coach Stale Solbakken made significant changes to the starting lineup, resting ten players from their previous match against Senegal. This decision meant that stars like Haaland and Martin Odegaard remained on the bench for the entire match. Conversely, France treated this match with utmost seriousness, as highlighted by assistant coach Guy Stephan, who filled in for Didier Deschamps due to a personal matter.

Dembele's hat-trick marked a significant turnaround for the player, who had previously struggled to find his scoring touch in international competitions. His first goal came from a well-placed pass by Mbappe, followed by a stunning left-footed shot from outside the box for his second. The third goal showcased his skill as he danced around the Norwegian defense before finishing with precision.

Notably, this hat-trick is the second fastest in World Cup history, achieved in just 32 minutes of play. According to Opta, it also had one of the lowest expected goals (xG) values, at just 0.19, making Dembele's achievement even more remarkable.

In the second half, Norway attempted to mount a comeback but failed to convert a penalty, with Mike Maignan making a crucial save. Despite Norway's increased pressure and attempts, France's defense held firm. The match concluded with Doue's late header, affirming France's dominance in the group stage, a feat they last accomplished in 1998, the year they won the World Cup.

With this result, Norway finishes second in the group and will face Ivory Coast in Dallas on June 30, while France will meet one of the best third-placed teams in East Rutherford, New Jersey.