Ousmane Dembélé scored a beautifully precise 25-minute hat-trick as France thrashed Norway 4-1 in Boston to seal top spot in World Cup Group I. The hyper-mobile French attack tore apart a second-string Norway side in the first half, with Dembélé's clinical finishing and Kylian Mbappé's creativity proving decisive. France will now play their last-32 tie in New Jersey on Tuesday, while Norway face Côte d'Ivoire in Texas.
Dominant First Half from France
France took the lead after six minutes when Mbappé delivered a wonderful diagonal pass to Dembélé, who cut inside and shot into the far corner. Dembélé doubled the lead on 20 minutes with a similar move, again finishing low and hard. Norway pulled one back immediately through Thelo Aasgaard, but Dembélé restored the two-goal advantage on 32 minutes with another composed finish. France led 3-1 at halftime.
Norway's Missed Opportunities
Norway started the second half brightly, with Oscar Bobb winning a penalty after a clever run. However, Jørgen Strand Larsen's spot-kick was soft and central, allowing Mike Maignan to save easily. Despite periods of pressure, Norway could not find a way back into the game. France added a fourth late on through Désiré Doué, heading in from Bradley Barcola's cross.
Impact on Tournament Prospects
Norway rested key players including Erling Haaland, rotating 10 starters. While manager Ståle Solbakken aimed to preserve squad fitness, the heavy defeat may damage Norway's late-stage tournament hopes. France, meanwhile, have scored 10 goals in the group stage and look formidable heading into the knockout rounds. The match highlighted France's attacking depth and exposed Norway's defensive vulnerabilities.
