Dembélé Nets Hat-Trick as France Thump Norway to Top Group I

June 30, 2026 — Jennifer Walsh 3 min read

Ousmane Dembélé delivered a masterclass on the biggest stage, scoring three goals to propel France to a commanding victory over Norway in World Cup 2026 action. The result sends Les Bleus to the summit of Group I with maximum points from their opening fixtures. The match, played at a packed stadium in Germany, showcased the 27-year-old winger at the peak of his powers.

A Match That Ended Early

The contest was effectively settled inside the first half. Dembélé opened the scoring in the 12th minute, collecting a pass from Antoine Griezmann before slotting the ball past the onrushing goalkeeper with his left foot. Norway, who came into the match with high hopes after a promising qualifying campaign, found themselves on the back foot immediately. France's midfield, marshalled by N'Golo Kanté, controlled possession with almost frightening ease. The second goal arrived in the 28th minute when Dembélé finished off a swift counter-attack initiated by Randal Kolo Muani. By halftime, the outcome had become a formality.

The Hat-Trick Seals It

Dembélé completed his hat-trick early in the second half. A mazy run past two Norwegian defenders culminated in a powerful strike that thundered into the top corner. The Stade de France erupted in celebration, with fans who had made the journey to Germany witnessing something special. France's head coach watched from the technical area, knowing his side had delivered a statement performance. Norway's defence, which had conceded just two goals in qualifying, looked utterly bewildered by the pace and movement of France's attacking unit.

France's Perfect Start

Three wins from three matches have positioned France exactly where they expected to be at this stage of the tournament. The 2022 runners-up entered World Cup 2026 as one of the favourites, and Tuesday's display offered compelling evidence to support that billing. France have scored nine goals while conceding none in Group I. Kanté, now 35, continues to defy expectations, covering more ground than any other midfielder in the competition so far. His partnership with Aurélien Tchouaméni provides the defensive solidity that allows Dembélé and his teammates to attack with freedom.

Norway's Disappointing Performance

For Norway, this defeat represents a significant setback. The Scandinavian nation arrived in Germany hoping to advance beyond the group stage for the first time since 2000. Erling Haaland, who had scored 12 goals in qualifying, cut an isolated figure up front. Norway's coaching staff made two substitutions at halftime in a desperate attempt to change the game's momentum, but France's superiority was too pronounced. The loss leaves Norway third in the group standings, behind France on goal difference and Austria on the same points.

What This Means for the Group

Group I now presents a fascinating dynamic heading into the final round of fixtures. France appear certain to advance as group winners given their goal difference and remaining schedule. The race for second place has become intensely competitive. Norway must now defeat Austria in their next match to retain realistic hopes of qualification. Austria, who beat Finland 2-1 earlier this week, have emerged as potential dark horses in this tournament. Their disciplined defensive structure and efficient counter-attacking could trouble any team in the knockout rounds.

Looking Ahead

France face Finland in four days, a fixture that offers an opportunity to rest key players ahead of the knockout phase. Dembélé, who has now scored five goals in two matches, may be given the night off to preserve his fitness. The French Football Federation will monitor his situation carefully, aware that their tournament hopes rest heavily on his shoulders. Norway's final group match against Austria now carries enormous significance. A defeat would end their World Cup campaign before the knockout rounds begin.

The atmosphere inside France's training base in Herzogenaurach has been buzzing since Tuesday's victory. Players spoke privately about the special nature of watching Dembélé at his clinical best. The tournament favourites have announced their arrival in emphatic fashion, and the rest of World Cup 2026 now knows they will need to produce something extraordinary to stop this French side.