Norway: Knockout Spot Secured, but Defensive Frailties Linger

Norway have been one of the tournament’s surprise packages, booking their place in the knockout stage after victories over Iraq (4-1) and Senegal (3-2). The dramatic win against Senegal showcased the attacking quality of Ståle Solbakken’s side, with Erling Haaland striking twice to settle an entertaining contest.

Despite collecting maximum points, Norway have yet to convince defensively. They have conceded in each of their last four matches and have managed just one clean sheet in their previous nine outings, highlighting an area that still requires improvement before the knockout rounds.

With qualification already guaranteed, Solbakken is expected to rotate heavily. Several starters were visibly exhausted after the demanding encounter with Senegal, making changes throughout the lineup highly likely. Haaland could be rested, allowing Alexander Sørloth and Jørgen Strand Larsen to spearhead the attack.

France: Group Leaders Looking to Finish the Job

France maintained their perfect start with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Iraq. Although Les Bleus lacked sharpness before halftime—and the match was delayed for almost two hours because of severe weather in Philadelphia—they quickly asserted themselves after the restart, wrapping up the result before the final quarter of the game.

Sitting top of the group on goal difference, Didier Deschamps’ side require only a draw to secure first place. However, Deschamps will not be on the touchline after returning to France following the passing of his mother, leaving long-time assistant Guy Stéphan in charge for this fixture.

Squad rotation is also expected for France. Theo Hernandez could return at left-back, N'Golo Kanté may replace Adrien Rabiot in midfield, while Bradley Barcola, Rayan Cherki, and Désiré Doué are pushing for starts behind Marcus Thuram in attack.

Probable Lineups

Norway: Selvik; Møller, Estigård, Ajer, Pedersen; Schjelderup, Berg, Aursnes, Bobb; Strand Larsen, Sørloth.

France: Maignan; Gusto, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernandez; Koné, Kanté; Doué, Cherki, Barcola; Thuram.

Match Facts

Norway have opened their World Cup campaign with consecutive victories, defeating Iraq 4-1 and Senegal 3-2.

France currently top the group thanks to a superior goal difference.

Les Bleus have not won their final group-stage match at a World Cup since the 2006 tournament.

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