Norway 1-4 France: Dembele Hat-Trick Powers Les Bleus to Group I Win

How it unfolded

France dominated from the outset, with Ousmane Dembele opening the scoring in the 7th minute. He doubled the lead in the 20th minute before Norway pulled one back through T. Aasgaard just a minute later. However, Dembele completed his hat-trick in the 32nd minute, restoring France's two-goal cushion. Norway started the second half strongly, with J. Larsen scoring in the 50th minute to make it 3-2, but France regained control and D. Doue added a fourth in stoppage time.

The decisive moments

Dembele's clinical finishing in the first half proved decisive. His hat-trick within 25 minutes put France firmly in charge. Norway's brief revival after the break was nullified by France's possession and chance creation, as they registered 17 total shots to Norway's 10. France's ability to respond quickly after each Norway goal showcased their resilience.

What it means

France take an early lead in Group I with three points and a strong goal difference. Norway, despite showing fighting spirit, must regroup ahead of their next match. The result underscores France's depth, with substitutes contributing to the final scoreline.