Already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16, France have no intention of easing off. Against Norway on Friday (9 p.m.), Didier Deschamps is expected to field an ambitious starting XI featuring an exciting attacking quartet.
Les Bleus are determined to finish top of their group and send a strong message to their future opponents. The players will also be looking to honor Didier Deschamps, who will miss the match as he remains in France to attend his mother’s funeral.
France Set to Field an Attacking Lineup Against Norway
In attack, Kylian Mbappé is expected to be supported by Michael Olise, Désiré Doué and Ousmane Dembélé. After being a doubt, Dembélé should start on the right wing, while Doué returns to the starting lineup after beginning the Iraq match on the bench. Olise is set to operate as the No. 10 behind Mbappé.
In defense, William Saliba is likely to be rested, allowing Maxence Lacroix to partner Dayot Upamecano in central defense. Malo Gusto and Theo Hernandez should occupy the full-back positions in front of goalkeeper Mike Maignan. In midfield, Aurélien Tchouaméni is expected to return to the starting XI alongside Manu Koné, with Adrien Rabiot set for a rest. Despite already securing qualification, France are fully focused on finishing first in Group I to avoid extra travel during the knockout stage. Tchouaméni summed up the team’s mindset by stating: “We have to win every match, and therefore finish first.”
The expected lineup is: Maignan – Gusto, Upamecano, Lacroix, Theo Hernandez – Koné, Tchouaméni – Dembélé, Olise, Doué – Mbappé.
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