by Ayomide Balogun
France delivered a dominant display as they defeated Norway 4-1 at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough on June 26, securing top spot in Group I and advancing to the Round of 32 with maximum points. Ousmane Dembélé stole the show with a first-half hat-trick, while a late strike from Désiré Doué capped an impressive performance. Norway, who rested several key players including Erling Haaland, managed a consolation goal through Thelo Aasgaard but were ultimately outclassed by the European heavyweight.
France took control early and opened the scoring in the 7th minute. A swift move involving Kylian Mbappé and Michael Olise set up Ousmane Dembélé, who finished neatly. Dembélé doubled the lead in the 20th minute with another composed finish, and completed his hat-trick just 12 minutes later with a curling effort from the edge of the box, leaving Norwegian goalkeeper Egil Selvik with no chance.
READ RELATED STORY
Norway vs France: Haaland faces Mbappé in group decider
Mbappé inspires France to comfortable victory over Iraq
Norway responded bravely despite fielding a rotated squad. In the 21st minute, Thelo Aasgaard pulled one back with a well taken goal, giving the Scandinavian side brief hope. However, France maintained their intensity and controlled the remainder of the first half comfortably.
The second half saw France ease off slightly but still create numerous chances. Norway defended resiliently and looked dangerous on occasional counters, but lacked the quality to seriously threaten an equalizer. In stoppage time, substitute Désiré Doué sealed the 4-1 victory with a headed goal from a well-delivered cross, putting the result beyond doubt.
A much changed Norway side showed spirit, but the gulf in squad depth and experience against a star studded French team proved decisive. France’s rotation of players worked effectively, with several substitutes making positive impacts.
Ousmane Dembélé was the standout performer, earning Man of the Match honors with his clinical hat-trick and constant threat. Kylian Mbappé provided creativity and two assist, while the French midfield controlled the game effectively. For Norway, Thelo Aasgaard’s goal and work rate were notable, as was the performance of goalkeeper Egil Selvik despite conceding four goals.
This victory reinforces France’s credentials as serious title contenders. With players like Dembélé in scintillating form and a strong squad depth, they will be a dangerous opponent in the knockout stages. Norway can take positives from their group stage campaign and will look to build on this experience.
