Norway secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over France in their World Cup 2026 group stage encounter, with star striker Erling Haaland scoring the decisive goal in the 78th minute. The match, played at the Stade de France, saw Norway take an early lead through captain Martin Ødegaard before France equalized via Kylian Mbappé. Haaland's powerful header from a corner kick proved to be the winner, handing Norway a crucial three points.
First Half Dominance
Norway started brightly, controlling possession and creating several chances. Their persistence paid off in the 23rd minute when Ødegaard curled a free-kick over the wall and into the top corner, leaving French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris with no chance. France struggled to find their rhythm, with midfielders Adrien Rabiot and Aurélien Tchouaméni unable to assert control.
France's best chance of the first half came from a counter-attack led by Mbappé, but his shot was well saved by Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland. The hosts went into halftime trailing 1-0, much to the frustration of the home crowd.
Second Half Comeback
France emerged from the break with renewed energy, pressing high and forcing errors from the Norwegian defense. In the 55th minute, Mbappé latched onto a through ball from Antoine Griezmann and slotted past Nyland to level the score. The goal ignited the stadium and shifted momentum in favor of the French.
Despite France's dominance, Norway remained dangerous on set pieces. In the 78th minute, a corner from Ødegaard found Haaland, who rose above defender Dayot Upamecano to head home the winner. The goal silenced the crowd and handed Norway a famous victory.
Key Statistics and Impact
According to FIFA statistics, Norway had 45% possession but registered 5 shots on target to France's 4. Haaland's goal was his 40th in international football, while Ødegaard's assist made him the team's leading creator in the tournament. The win puts Norway top of Group H with 6 points, while France sits second with 3 points.
"We showed great character to come back and win," said Norway coach Ståle Solbakken after the match. "France is a world-class team, but we believed in our game plan." France coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged his team's shortcomings, stating, "We didn't take our chances, and we paid the price."
