Ousmane Dembele scored the second-fastest hat-trick in World Cup history as France defeated Norway 4-1 in Boston on Friday, securing top spot in Group I. The win sets up a Round of 32 match against Sweden in New Jersey.
Dembele's Hat-Trick Heroics
Dembele netted three goals inside 32 minutes, putting France in a commanding position. Despite his remarkable feat, the Ballon d'Or winner insisted it was his worst performance of the tournament. "I'm happy, it's a unique and important moment for me," Dembele said. "My performance was good, but I preferred my matches against Senegal or Iraq; I think I was much more influential. I now need to stay focused because important things are coming."
The hat-trick was the second-fastest in World Cup history, underscoring Dembele's ability to silence critics. France teammate Aurelien Tchouameni defended Dembele, saying: "You're the ones with doubts, not us! We know who he is, what he's capable of. He's always laughing; he's one of the most cheerful guys in the locker room. When he scores three goals, everyone is happy for him."
France's Dominant Group Stage
France's 4-1 victory means they have won all three group matches for the first time since 1998, when they went on to become World Cup champions. Kylian Mbappe has four goals in the tournament, while Desire Doue also scored against Norway. Coach Didier Deschamps missed the match due to the passing of his mother but is expected to rejoin the squad for the knockout stage.
Defender Maxence Lacroix, a Chelsea target, made his World Cup debut and impressed. "The job has been done. It's also a victory for the coach, we had him in our hearts of course and we were thinking of him," Lacroix said. "It's important for us to give everything too, because he wasn't with us, even if he was present in our hearts, so that we could give him that."
Injury Concerns and Upcoming Clash
William Saliba missed training on Thursday due to back pain but is expected to return for the Round of 32 match against Sweden. He will face Arsenal teammate Viktor Gyokeres and Liverpool striker Alexander Isak. France's depth in defense, including Lacroix, provides adequate cover.
With their attacking firepower and resilient defense, France look well-positioned for a deep run in the tournament. Dembele's form, in particular, could be crucial as they aim for a third World Cup title.
