Olise hat-trick inspires France to friendly win over Northern Ireland

Michael Olise starred with a hat-trick as France defeated Northern Ireland 3-1 in their final warm-up match before the World Cup.

Four days after a disappointing 1-2 loss to Ivory Coast, Didier Deschamps' team found a measure of reassurance in Lille. Despite fielding a strong starting lineup, the collective performance was not entirely convincing. However, Olise's exceptional talent shone through, particularly in the second half.

France took a sterile first half to break the deadlock. Tchouaméni hit the post in the 21st minute, but it was Olise who finally found the net just before halftime. The Bayern Munich player then doubled the lead early in the second half with a powerful left-footed strike. He completed his hat-trick with a superb curling effort, sealing the victory.

Olise's dazzling display contrasted with the muted influence of Ousmane Dembélé and the uncharacteristic inaccuracy of captain Kylian Mbappé, who struggled to make an impact in front of goal. The match marked Deschamps' final game on French soil as manager, concluding an era for the national team.