Dembélé Hat-Trick Powers France Past Norway to Group I Top Spot

Ousmane Dembélé put on a masterclass in Boston, scoring a brilliant 25-minute hat-trick as France brushed aside a weakened Norway side 4-1 to claim top spot in Group I. The result sets up a last-32 fixture in New Jersey on Tuesday for the defending champions, while Norway must regroup ahead of a date with Côte d’Ivoire in Texas.

A Hat-Trick for the Ages

Dembélé's three goals were a study in precision and variety. He opened the scoring with a curling effort from the edge of the box, doubled the lead with a clipped finish after a rapid counter-attack, and completed his treble with a low drive that beat goalkeeper Egil Selvik at his near post. The performance underscored France's frightening attacking depth, even with some regulars rested. The French attack, hyper-mobile and supremely varied, carved through Norway's defense at will in a first half that felt more like target practice than a competitive group-stage match.

Norway's Defensive Woes

Norway, missing the rested Erling Haaland, were unable to offer any resistance. Their makeshift defense was torn apart by France's movement and passing, leaving Selvik exposed time and again. The match had the feel of a tournament formality—big third-place playoff energy, as some described it—but the stakes were real for Norway, who now face a must-win clash against Côte d’Ivoire to keep their knockout hopes alive. Without Haaland, they lacked a focal point up front, and their attacking threat was minimal.

What It Means for Both Sides

France's statement win sends a clear message to the rest of the field: this attack can dismantle any defense. With their place in the knockout phase guaranteed, Les Bleus can now plan for a deep run, starting with their last-32 tie in New Jersey. For Norway, the path forward is murky. Their late-stage tournament hopes, while not extinguished, have been damaged by the sight of France using every corner of Selvik's goal for shooting practice. They must rediscover their defensive solidity quickly, or their World Cup journey will end in Texas.