Preview: Norway vs France | Latest news, line-ups, absences (26/06/2026)
Preview, team news, head-to-head, probable line-ups and where to watch Norway vs France in Group I at the 2026 World Cup
Norway and France meet in Boston on Friday in a heavyweight Group I decider, with both sides already through to the knockout stages of the World Cup but still battling for first place, and with star forwards Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé fighting for the Golden Boot.
France have taken a perfect six points from their first two matches, beating Senegal 3-1 before defeating Iraq 3-0. Didier Deschamps‘ side have looked controlled, clinical and comfortable, with Mbappé key to their attacking threat.
Norway also have a 100 percent record from their opening two games. Ståle Solbakken‘s team started with a 4-1 win over Iraq before edging Senegal 3-2 at the MetLife Stadium, the stadium that will host the 2026 World Cup final, a result that confirmed their first knockout-stage appearance since 1998. Erling Haaland scored twice against Senegal, taking his tournament tally to four goals.
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France arrive in strong shape and with top spot firmly in their sights. Deschamps may consider some rotation, but the importance of finishing first means wholesale changes would be a surprise.
Norway are also through, but Solbakken has hinted that managing the squad may be a consideration. Haaland’s form makes him almost impossible to leave out, though, especially with the debate over who will win the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot race already developing into one of the tournament’s biggest talking points.
Norway
Norway’s confidence is high after back-to-back victories. Haaland has scored braces in both matches and remains the clear focal point of the attack. Martin Ødegaard‘s influence has also been vital, particularly as the link between midfield and attack. His assist for Haaland against Senegal underlined how important that connection is to Norway’s chances. Solbakken may freshen up one or two positions, but Norway will want to preserve rhythm before the knockout rounds. Torbjorn Heggem and Julian Ryerson are both doubtful after being subbed off during the game against Senegal.
France
France have looked like one of the most complete teams in the tournament. Mbappé remains the headline figure, but Deschamps has quality throughout the side. Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adrien Rabiot give France power and control in midfield, while Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembélé offer creativity and pace around Mbappé. France have conceded only once in two matches and will view this as a useful test before the knockout stage.
Norway vs France H2H
Norway and France have faced each other regularly over the years, although they have not met often in recent major tournaments. Norway have shown in the past that they can trouble France, but this will be the first World Cup meeting between the nations.
Previous meetings:
- 27/05/2014: France 4-0 Norway (International friendly)
- 11/08/2010: Norway 2-1 France (International friendly)
- 25/02/1998: France 3-3 Norway (International friendly)
Predicted line-ups
Both teams have already qualified, so minor rotation is possible. However, first place remains valuable and neither manager is expected to weaken the side dramatically.
Tactical analysis: Haaland against France’s defensive power
This match offers one of the most exciting individual battles of the group stage, inevitably being billed as Haaland vs Mbappé, with both players scoring four goals in their opening two matches.
Haaland has been ruthless so far, but France possess the athleticism and defensive quality to challenge him physically. Norway’s plan will be built around quick transitions, Ødegaard’s passing and Haaland’s penalty-box movement. They are unlikely to dominate possession, but they do not need many chances to score.
France will look to control midfield and isolate Mbappé in dangerous areas. If Norway’s defensive line drops too deep, France have the quality to create overloads around the box. The midfield battle could decide the rhythm. If Ødegaard finds space, Norway can hurt France. If Tchouaméni and Rabiot control the centre, France should dictate the match.
Key players to watch
Erling Haaland (Norway)
Haaland has made a spectacular start to his first World Cup. France’s centre-backs will be the toughest test he has faced so far, but Haaland only needs one clear chance to change a match. The Manchester City striker is never a cheap goalscorer selection, but his form makes him impossible to ignore. Backing Haaland to score vs France anytime is obvious, while first goalscorer offers better value if Norway can strike early on the counter.
Kylian Mbappé (France)
Mbappé remains France’s most dangerous weapon and one of the defining players of the tournament. His pace in transition, finishing and ability to create something from nothing make him a constant threat, even in matches where France are not at their fluent best. Norway have defended well enough to qualify, but stopping Mbappé is a different challenge entirely. If France finish top of the group, their captain is likely to be involved. Odds on Mbappé to score anytime appear the safest option, but a France win and Mbappé goal combination offers stronger value.
Where to watch in the UK
Norway vs France kicks off at 20:00 BST on Friday, June 26 at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
In the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on ITV1, STV, ITVX and STV Player.
In the Republic of Ireland, the match will be available through RTÉ’s World Cup coverage and RTÉ Player.
Market insights and predictions
France enter as favourites despite Norway’s excellent start. Current markets imply approximately a 52% chance of a France victory, compared to around 23% for Norway, while the draw is rated at roughly 25%.
The goals markets point towards an open contest. Both teams to score is estimated at around 58%, while over 2.5 goals carries an implied probability of roughly 60%.
Norway have been excellent and Haaland gives them a chance against anyone, but France possess greater depth, more tournament experience and more ways to win the match.
