France Tops Group I of 2026 World Cup, Senegal Keeps Chances Alive

France concluded the group stage of the 2026 World Cup with a flawless record, crushing Norway 4-1 in their final Group I match. Ousmane Dembele was the standout performer for Les Bleus, netting a hat-trick, while Desire Doue contributed the fourth goal. Norway managed a consolation goal through Thelo Aasgaard.

The victory ensured France finished as Group I winners with a maximum of nine points from three games. Norway also advanced to the round of 32 as the group's runner-up with six points. France dominated the match from the outset, with Kylian Mbappe hitting the post early on before setting up Dembele for the opening goal in the seventh minute. Dembele doubled the lead in the 20th minute, again assisted by Mbappe.

Norway briefly reduced the deficit a minute later with a goal from Thelo Aasgaard, assisted by Andreas Schjelderup. However, France quickly reasserted control, with Dembele completing his hat-trick in the 32nd minute from an Aurelien Tchouameni assist, giving France a comfortable 3-1 lead at halftime.

In the second half, Norway had a golden opportunity to score from the penalty spot, but Jorgen Strand Larsen's attempt was saved by French goalkeeper Mike Maignan. Maignan made another crucial save to deny Oscar Bobb. As the match neared its end, France added a final flourish. Bradley Barcola provided the assist for Desire Doue, who scored in the 90+4th minute to seal the resounding 4-1 victory.

In another Group I match, Senegal kept their hopes of advancing to the round of 32 alive with a commanding 5-0 victory over Iraq. Habib Diarra opened the scoring early, followed by goals from Ismaila Sarr, a brace from Pape Gueye, and Iliman Ndiaye. This win placed Senegal third in the group with three points, maintaining a chance to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams, while Iraq finished the tournament without any points.