Norway vs France: FIFA World Cup 2026 Predicted Lineups
Get the predicted lineups and formations for the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I clash between Norway and France. Both teams have already secured their passage to the Round of 32, but the coveted top spot in the group is on the line, promising an enthralling battle. Discover key players like Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé, along with.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 Group Stage concludes for Group I with a mouth-watering clash between Norway and France at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, with kickoff scheduled for Saturday, June 27, at 12:30 AM IST (Friday, June 26, local time). While both European powerhouses have already secured their passage to the knockout stages (Round of 32), this fixture carries significant weight as the teams vie for the coveted top spot in Group I, which could influence their path through the Round of 32. FIFA World Cup 2026 Becomes Highest Goal-Scoring Edition Ever to Eclipse Qatar 2022 Record.
France currently holds the advantage on goal difference (+5 GD vs +4 GD), meaning a draw would be enough for them to seal first place. Norway, making their first World Cup appearance since 1998, will need a victory to leapfrog Les Bleus and claim the pole position.
Team News and Expected Lineups
Official team sheets will be released closer to kick-off, but here are the predicted starting XIs and formations based on recent form and team news.
Norway (Predicted 4-3-3 Formation)
Norway, under manager Ståle Solbakken, has impressed with their attacking prowess in the tournament, securing back-to-back victories. However, they have shown some defensive vulnerabilities, conceding in both their group games so far.
Injuries/Suspensions: Julian Ryerson is reportedly doubtful due to a thigh injury.
Expected Starting XI: Ørjan Nyland; Marcus Holmgren Pedersen, Kristoffer Ajer, Torbjørn Lysaker Heggem, David Møller Wolfe; Martin Ødegaard (C), Sander Berge, Fredrik Aursnes; Alexander Sørloth, Erling Haaland, Antonio Nusa.
France (Predicted 4-2-3-1 Formation)
Didier Deschamps' France has been formidable, also securing maximum points from their opening two matches. They boast a strong defensive record, conceding only one goal thus far, and a potent attack. Assistant Guy Stéphan will be on the touchline as Deschamps is absent due to a family bereavement.
Injuries/Suspensions: William Saliba is confirmed out for this match after missing training, with Maxence Lacroix expected to step in. Marcus Thuram also sat out training.
Expected Starting XI: Mike Maignan; Jules Koundé, Dayot Upamecano, Maxence Lacroix, Théo Hernandez; Aurélien Tchouaméni, Adrien Rabiot; Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, Désiré Doué; Kylian Mbappé (C).
Players to Watch
The marquee matchup undeniably features two of the world's most electrifying forwards: Erling Haaland for Norway and Kylian Mbappé for France. Both players have already netted four goals each in the tournament, making this clash a potential battle for the Golden Boot lead. Germany Players and Coach Julian Nagelsmann At Odds After FIFA World Cup 2026 Loss To Ecuador.
Erling Haaland (Norway): The Manchester City striker is Norway's focal point, leading their attack with his prolific goal-scoring ability and physical presence.
Martin Ødegaard (Norway): The Arsenal captain is the creative maestro in Norway's midfield, crucial for unlocking defenses with his vision and passing range.
Kylian Mbappé (France): France's captain and talisman, Mbappé's pace, dribbling, and clinical finishing make him a constant threat, now operating more centrally as a No. 9.
Michael Olise (France): In terrific form, Olise provides dazzling creativity from the wing, already racking up assists in the tournament.
What's at Stake
Beyond bragging rights, securing the top spot in Group I offers a more favourable draw in the Round of 32, potentially setting up an easier path deeper into the tournament. Both teams will be eager to maintain their winning momentum and send a strong message as they head into the knockout rounds.
This highly anticipated match promises an exciting display of attacking football as two of the tournament's most potent sides battle for group supremacy, with individual brilliance expected from their star forwards.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 26, 2026 03:45 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
