Dembélé's hat-trick shatters records in France's World Cup win

Ousmane Dembélé delivered a stunning performance, scoring a rapid hat-trick to lead France to a dominant 4-1 victory over Norway in their 2026 World Cup group stage match. The French forward was the standout player, not only securing the win but also etching his name into World Cup history with his remarkable individual display.

Dembélé opened the scoring in the seventh minute, doubled France's lead in the 20th, and completed his hat-trick just before halftime in the 32nd minute. This feat marked the second-fastest hat-trick in World Cup history, surpassed only by Erich Probst of Austria in 1954, who achieved his in 24 minutes. Dembélé's first-half treble also made him the first player to score three goals in the opening half of a World Cup match since 1994.

With his three goals against Norway, Dembélé joined an exclusive club of World Cup hat-trick scorers, including Lionel Messi and Jonathan David. He also became only the third French player ever to achieve this milestone in a World Cup, following in the footsteps of legends Just Fontaine and Kylian Mbappé. This performance marks a significant moment for Dembélé, who has faced criticism for inconsistent displays in previous tournaments, showcasing a resurgence in form with four goals in his last two international appearances.

Dembélé's speed, dribbling ability, and clinical finishing were instrumental in France's commanding group stage performance. His hat-trick not only propelled France to a decisive victory and top spot in Group I but also solidified his status as one of the tournament's most impactful individual performers. The win reinforces France's credentials as strong contenders for the World Cup title.

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3 - Ousmane Dembélé's hat-trick just 32 minutes into today's game is the second earliest a player has scored a FIFA World Cup hat-trick in a match, behind Erich Probst in 1954 for Austria against Czechoslovakia (24 minutes).