Norway face France in Group I decider with Haaland chasing top spot

Group I decider tonight in Boston

Norway face France at Gillette Stadium with top spot in Group I on the line (1) (2) (3) (4). You are already through to the round of 16 after that 3–2 win over Senegal, now it is about whether Haaland and company finish first or second (1). Kickoff is 20:00 UK time (2). The winner of this match wins the group. A draw favors France, who lead on goal difference (4).

Deschamps will not be on the touchline

France head coach Didier Deschamps misses the match after the death of his mother (2). Assistant Guy Stéphan takes charge. These are the moments that transcend football.

Saliba out, France reshuffle at the back

William Saliba is ruled out injured for France (2). That is a significant hole in the French defense, the kind your attackers will want to test early.

Haaland vs Mbappé

Two of the world's best go head-to-head. Haaland has four goals in the tournament already. Mbappé leads the French line. French outlet RMC Sport ran the statistical comparison ahead of this one (5). CBS Sports has France as narrow favorites but notes Norway's attacking output makes the over 2.5 goals enticing (3).

Fan reactions

The pre-match chatter is buzzing around the Haaland–Mbappé showdown. City fans in the World Cup thread are calling this the marquee fixture of the day, with Rayan Cherki also flagged as one to watch for France. One thread sums up the mood: this is the kind of matchup that makes the group stage worth it. Join the discussion