France has made a stunning start at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, achieving a perfect record in their opening three matches. Their latest victory came on June 26, when they triumphed over Norway with a decisive scoreline of 4-1 at Boston Stadium. The standout performer for the French side was Ousmane Dembélé, who netted three goals and became the first player since 1994 to score a hat trick in the first half of a World Cup match.
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Dembélé’s exceptional performance allowed France to dominate the game from the outset. His record-breaking hat trick was completed swiftly, with the forward finding the net repeatedly before the half-time whistle, further solidifying his status as one of the tournament’s key players. The final goal for France was added in the dying moments of the match by Désiré Doué, sealing an emphatic win for the reigning champions.
Norway entered this crucial fixture without key players, opting to rest star striker Erling Haaland and midfielder Martin Ødegaard for future matches. Coach Stale Solbakken made this decision with an eye on the bigger picture of the tournament. While Norway managed to score through Thelo Aasgaard in the 21st minute, their offensive efforts dwindled and they were unable to mount a significant challenge thereafter.
In a pre-match interview, Haaland acknowledged the importance of managing player fitness during the tournament. “We managed to get through, which is incredible,” he said, expressing confidence in his team’s ability to perform in later stages. His comments suggested a level of resignation regarding the match against France, as he conceded that his side was unlikely to overcome the talented French line-up.
A poignant moment overshadowed the build-up to the match, as a minute’s silence was observed in memory of the victims of the recent earthquakes in Venezuela. This solemn tribute offered a reminder of the global context in which the tournament is being held and the importance of solidarity in the face of tragedy.
The attendance at Boston Stadium included various notable figures, including actor Channing Tatum, who drew attention while supporting Norway from the stands. His presence underscored the significant interest that the World Cup has garnered among both sports fans and celebrities alike.
With this latest win, France has secured the top spot in Group 1, leaving them well-positioned for the knockout phases of the tournament. Their scintillating performance and the form of players like Dembélé and Kylian Mbappé have made them a formidable contender as the competition progresses.
Norway, meanwhile, finished second in their group and will be looking to build on their performances as they advance. While they faced a setback against France, the team’s commitment to resting key players indicates a strategic approach to the tournament, aiming to harness their star talents for crucial subsequent matches.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on France as they attempt to defend their title, and on Norway as they strive to make a mark on the international stage. Each match presents new challenges, and both teams will be seeking to learn from this encounter as they prepare for what lies ahead in the FIFA World Cup.