The penultimate day of group stage matches at the 2026 World Cup features a blockbuster showdown between Norway and France to determine the winner of Group I, while Uruguay must secure a positive result against Spain to keep their knockout-round hopes alive.
Norway v France: Battle for Group I Supremacy
Norway have lived up to their billing as dark horses, defeating Iraq and Senegal in their first two matches while scoring seven goals. Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard have hit their stride early, demonstrating their ability to dismantle even the strongest defensive lines. France have also impressed, netting six goals in back-to-back wins over Senegal and Iraq. Kylian Mbappé has scored four goals so far, with Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé, and Bradley Barcola contributing to what is arguably the tournament's most fearsome attack.
Player to watch: Michael Olise (France). The Bayern Munich forward operates as a No. 10 and is the creative force behind France's forward line, continuing to grow into one of the game's best all-round attackers.
Kick-off: 3pm ET at Boston Stadium. In the United States, watch on FOX or Telemundo (stream on Fubo); in Canada on TSN; in the United Kingdom on ITV1; in Australia on SBS.
Senegal v Iraq: African Giants Seek Revival
Senegal have yet to find their form after back-to-back defeats to France and Norway. However, the African giants have more to offer and could still reach the knockout rounds with a dominant performance and result. Iraq have struggled defensively in the tournament's most challenging group, and their task does not get easier against a talented Senegal attack.
Player to watch: Ismaïla Sarr (Senegal). The Crystal Palace winger has been a consistent threat, cutting in behind opponents from the right side.
Kick-off: 3pm ET at Toronto Stadium. Broadcast on FS1 or Telemundo in the US; TSN in Canada; ITV4 in the UK; SBS in Australia.
Cabo Verde v Saudi Arabia: Underdog Story Continues
Cape Verde have been one of the World Cup's best underdog stories, giving themselves a strong chance of advancing from Group H. After playing with their backs to the wall against Uruguay and Spain, the Blue Sharks now aim to impose their own game. Saudi Arabia started with an admirable draw against Uruguay but have not won a World Cup match since 2022, when they famously beat Lionel Messi's Argentina. Georgios Donis must get more from his attacking players.
Player to watch: Vozinha (Cape Verde). The 40-year-old goalkeeper has been an unexpected star, with another opportunity to showcase his shot-stopping ability.
Kick-off: 8pm ET at Houston Stadium. Broadcast on FS1 or Telemundo in the US; TSN in Canada; ITV4 in the UK; SBS in Australia.
Uruguay v Spain: Bielsa's Team Must Show Variety
Uruguay have not played like a typical Marcelo Bielsa team so far. The 1930 and 1950 winners have struggled for creativity and been one-dimensional in the final third, drawing with Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia. To reach the knockout rounds, they must show more variety. Spain bounced back from an underwhelming opener against Cape Verde by putting four past Saudi Arabia. Lamine Yamal's return gave the European champions a much-needed direct threat, restoring faith in their pre-tournament predictions.
Player to watch: Lamine Yamal (Spain). The 18-year-old is Spain's biggest difference-maker, making everything click in the final third. Without him, they lack invention.
Kick-off: 8pm ET at Guadalajara Stadium. Broadcast on FOX or Telemundo in the US; TSN in Canada; ITV1 in the UK; SBS in Australia.
Egypt v Iran: History Beckons for Pharaohs
Fresh from their maiden World Cup win, Egypt can reach the knockout rounds for the first time with a draw against Iran. Mohamed Salah and his teammates have shown ability on the counter against Belgium and against a low block against New Zealand. Iran held Belgium to a goalless draw, demonstrating defensive resolve amid difficult circumstances. They may need to impose themselves more in the opposition half to take the game to Egypt.
Player to watch: Mohamed Salah (Egypt). The former Liverpool winger became Egypt's all-time top scorer by finding the net against New Zealand and will be a threat once again.
Kick-off: 11pm ET at Seattle Stadium. Broadcast on FS1 or Telemundo in the US; TSN in Canada; BBC Two in the UK; SBS in Australia.
New Zealand v Belgium: Red Devils Seek Formula
New Zealand, ranked 85th in FIFA rankings, have made a positive impact, scoring in each of their two outings despite losing to Egypt. Friday's match against Belgium could be their toughest test. Belgium have struggled, scoring only one goal (an own goal) in two games. Rudi Garcia appears to be searching for answers, and this could be the Red Devils' last chance to hit their stride.
Player to watch: Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium). The Napoli playmaker is Belgium's primary creative force and will be tasked with breaking down a New Zealand side set up in a low defensive block.
Kick-off: 11pm ET at BC Place Vancouver. Broadcast on FOX or Telemundo in the US; TSN in Canada; BBC One in the UK; SBS in Australia.
