Saliba out and Deschamps absent as France face Norway for top spot

Norway decides everything

Friday night in Boston. Norway v France for top spot in Group I. Mbappé against Haaland, the kind of matchup that sells itself (5)(6). The winner takes the easier knockout path. Your team has four points from two games. A draw might be enough for first, but nothing is guaranteed.

France are the favorites heading in, with the sharper squad on paper (3). But Norway have Haaland, and he has built a career on nights like this.

Deschamps not on the bench

Didier Deschamps will not be at the sideline. His mother passed away, and assistant Guy Stéphan leads the team in his absence (2)(4). The squad learned the news before kick-off. No further details, by the family's wish.

Saliba out

William Saliba misses the Norway match through injury (2). A blow at the worst moment. No word yet on who replaces him in the back line, but Deschamps, or Stéphan, will need to shuffle things against Haaland.

Fan reactions

The r/MCFC World Cup thread has one note of interest for France fans: Rayan Cherki is listed among today's players to watch, alongside Erling Haaland (1). City supporters are clearly tracking the Norway forward, but the Cherki mention suggests the Lyon man is on more radars than you might think. See the full thread here.