Dembele's hattrick power France top Group I and advances to World Cup round of 32 as they beat Norway

France has comfortably won Group I at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing top spot with a maximum nine points and a commanding +8 goal difference after three matches. The team defeated Norway 4-1, who decided to relax star player Erling Haaland while the fans were excited about the Haaland vs Kylian Mbappe clash. 

Ousmane Dembele scored a stunning hat-trick, which came in the first half alone, netting in the 7th, 20th, and 32nd minutes of the game. Later, Desire Doue added one in the dying minutes of the game at 90’ + 4’. Didier Dechamps’ side progressed directly to the round of 32 alongside runners-up Norway, who finished on six points. 

Dembele's hat-trick powers France top Group I and advances to World Cup round of 32 as they beat Norway

Senegal took third place with three points, while Iraq finished bottom without a point and a heavy -11 goal difference. Les Bleus now turn their focus to the knockout stages, where their attacking firepower and defensive solidity will be tested further.

ALSO READ: Messi benched as Argentina rotates squad for final World Cup Group clash against Jordan