Norway and France will meet at Gillette Stadium in the final round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage.

Both nations have already secured qualification for the Round of 16, but first place in the group remains to be decided. France only need a draw to stay on top, while Norway must claim all three points.

Norway Continue Their Impressive Campaign

Ståle Solbakken's side have collected maximum points from their opening two matches.

Strong Attack, Defensive Concerns

Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 before edging Senegal 3-2, but defensive issues continue to be a concern after conceding in four consecutive matches.

Squad Rotation Expected

Following a physically demanding encounter with Senegal, several changes are expected. Erling Haaland could begin on the bench, with Alexander Sørloth and Jørgen Strand Larsen likely to start in attack.

France Can Afford a More Pragmatic Approach

France comfortably defeated Iraq 3-0 to secure qualification.

Deschamps Will Be Absent

Assistant coach Guy Stéphan is expected to take charge after Didier Deschamps returned to France because of a family bereavement.

Fresh Faces Could Start

Theo Hernandez, N'Golo Kanté, Bradley Barcola, Rayan Cherki and Désiré Doué are all pushing for places in the starting lineup.

Key Match Statistics

Norway

• Won both opening group matches.
• Have conceded in four consecutive games.
• Kept only one clean sheet in their last nine matches.

France

• Lead the group on goal difference.
• Have not won their third World Cup group-stage match since 2006.
• Scored six goals across their first two matches.

Prediction

With both teams already through to the knockout stage, the tactical pressure is lower than in previous rounds.

Squad rotation, Norway's defensive vulnerabilities and the attacking quality available on both sides point towards an entertaining contest with chances at each end.

Prediction: Both Teams to Score – Yes.