Norway and France will face each other in a high-stakes Group I decider at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday, June 26, 2026. The match kicks off at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, with English referee Oliver M. appointed to officiate. Both teams have already secured progression to the knockout stages, turning this final group fixture into a direct battle for top spot in the group.
The 2018 world champions France enter the contest as clear favourites after two convincing victories, while Norway aim to top the group for the first time in their World Cup history following an impressive start to the tournament. With significant attacking talent on display and strong recent form from both sides, this promises to be one of the most entertaining group stage matches of the competition.
Norway vs France Last Matches
Norway vs France: Head to Head (H2H)
Norway: Team News
Norway head into this crucial World Cup clash in excellent shape, having already made history by securing two victories in their first-ever tournament where they won more than once. The Scandinavian side stunned many with convincing wins over Iraq (4-1) and Senegal (3-2), showcasing a potent attacking outfit led by superstar striker Erling Haaland. The Manchester City forward has been in sensational form, netting four goals in just two matches and putting himself firmly in the Golden Boot conversation.
A major concern for coach is the injury to right-back Julian Ryerson, who was forced off in the previous game. His absence may force defensive adjustments, potentially impacting the team’s balance on the right flank. Norway’s recent record is impressive — 14 wins from their last 18 internationals — but they have never beaten a European opponent at a World Cup finals (D2 L3). With Haaland in clinical mood and the team displaying strong character, they will look to overcome their historical struggles against top European nations and secure top spot in Group I.
France: Team News
France arrive at Gillette Stadium in formidable condition, having asserted their status as one of the tournament favourites with two commanding victories. The 2018 world champions dismantled Senegal 3-1 and Iraq 3-0, scoring six goals across the opening two matchdays. Kylian Mbappé continues his remarkable World Cup scoring run, already on four goals and closing in on all-time records with clinical finishing and electric pace.
The squad is close to full strength, providing coach with plenty of tactical flexibility. France boast an impressive streak of five successive World Cup wins against European opposition and have won 11 of their last 13 matches overall, nine by a two-goal margin or more. Their attacking depth and defensive solidity make them a daunting prospect. With high motivation to finish the group stage with a perfect record — something they achieved before winning the tournament in 1998 — Les Bleus will be determined to maintain their momentum and claim first place in the group.
Key Stats and Performance Indicators
Norway Possible Starting Lineup
Orjan Nyland (GK), Julian Ryerson (DF), Torbjorn Heggem (DF), Kristoffer Ajer (DF), David Wolfe (DF), Martin Odegaard (MF), Fredrik Aursnes (MF), Sander Berge (MF), Alexander Sorloth (MF), Erling Haaland (FW), Antonio Nusa (FW)
France Possible Starting Lineup:
Mike Maignan (GK), Jules Koundé (DF), William Saliba (DF), Dayot Upamecano (DF), Lucas Digne (DF), Adrien Rabiot (MF), Manu Koné (MF), Ousmane Dembélé (MF), Michael Olise (MF), Bradley Barcola (MF), Kylian Mbappé (FW)
Norway vs France Match Prediction
Both teams have shown strong attacking intent throughout the group stage, making this a highly entertaining matchup between two of the most in-form sides. Norway rely heavily on the brilliance of Erling Haaland and the creativity of Martin Ødegaard, while France boast superior squad depth and the explosive threat of Kylian Mbappé. Given the open nature of both teams’ recent performances and their tendency to score freely, we expect a competitive and goal-filled contest.
Our Prediction: Norway 2-2 France
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