Dembélé’s Hat-Trick Heroics Seal France’s Top Spot in Group I

BOSTON — Ousmane Dembélé turned on the style in a stunning first-half blitz as France stormed past Norway 4-1 at Boston Stadium on June 26, 2026, to clinch top spot in Group I of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The former Ballon d’Or winner tore through Norway’s defence with ruthless efficiency, netting a hat-trick in just 32 minutes before the break. His three goals left the Norwegian backline scrambling and gave France a commanding 3-1 lead at half-time.

Norway, who opted to keep star striker Erling Haaland on the bench for tactical reasons, struggled to cope with France’s pace and precision. Despite a late consolation goal, their efforts were ultimately in vain.

The final flourish came in the second half when Désiré Doué rose highest to head home, sealing a comprehensive 4-1 victory and completing a flawless group stage campaign.

With this result, France became the first team at the 2026 World Cup to claim all nine points in the group phase, finishing unbeaten and topping Group I with authority. Norway, despite the loss, secured second place and a place in the Round of 32, joining Senegal as the other qualifiers from the group.

The win not only underscored France’s attacking prowess but also cemented Dembélé’s status as a tournament standout. His clinical finishing and relentless movement were the defining feature of a dominant opening 45 minutes, while Doué’s decisive header added the perfect punctuation mark to a performance brimming with quality.

France now turn their attention to the knockout stages, where their form and confidence will be tested against tougher opposition. For now, though, the focus remains on a job well done – and a hat-trick that will be remembered long after the final whistle.