Manchester City striker Erling Haaland downplayed Norway’s showdown with France, saying the French will probably win. Both teams entered the Boston clash on June 26 level on six points after beating Senegal and Iraq to reach the round of 32. France sit atop Group I on goal difference, leaving Norway needing a victory to claim top spot. The match also decides which side faces a potentially tougher opponent in the last‑16.

Haaland told Fox Sports he “doesn’t care” about the result because Norway have already achieved their pre‑tournament aim of advancing. He noted France’s depth and their likely path to the title, adding the match offers little beyond pride. The encounter pits him against Kylian Mbappé, both on four goals, while Lionel Messi leads the Golden Boot race with five. Both players will be watched closely by scouts eyeing post‑World Cup moves.

Norway coach Ståle Solbakken called Haaland the tournament’s best striker, praising his four‑goal haul and urging more support for the final group game. A win would hand Norway Group I honors, while a loss drops them to second behind France. The result determines seeding for the knockout round and could shape the path for both sides.