France wrapped up Group I with a 4-1 victory over Norway at Boston Stadium, a result that turned a projected Golden Boot duel into an Ousmane Dembele showcase. The Ballon d’Or winner netted a 25‑minute hat‑trick, while Kylian Mbappé struck the post early. Norway rested Erling Haaland, benching the Manchester City striker for the first time since 2024.

Coach Ståle Solbakken made ten changes, citing medical advice and fatigue after a grueling schedule that left several defenders and midfielders exhausted. He argued the decision served the fans, who expected to see Haaland and Martin Ødegaard. Substitute Jørgen Strand Larsen missed a penalty that could have narrowed the gap, underscoring Norway’s gamble.

The win secures France’s perfect record and guarantees a top‑seed match against the Group F or G runner‑up, a fixture that promises another high‑scoring encounter. Their depth allowed rotation without compromising results, reinforcing their status as tournament favourites.

Norway, now on the road to Arlington, must rely on a rested squad lacking its primary scorer. A victory over Ivory Coast would keep their World Cup hopes alive, but the absence of Haaland and a missed penalty highlight the risk of Solbakken’s wholesale changes.