The France squad wraps up the group stage of the Coupe du monde 2026 with its toughest test yet. On Friday, June 26, the Blues face Norway at MetLife Stadium in New York. After the Senegal and Iraq, this third match in Group I is crucial to decide who will clinch the top spot in the group and secure a theoretically sweeter path in the Round of 16.
Unlike Iraq, Norway is a familiar foe for the Blues, even if recent meetings are rare. In a friendly, the latest clash ended in a resounding French victory (4-0) at the Stade de France, just ahead of the 2014 World Cup.
This match marks a top-tier reunion between France's veteran squad and Norway's emerging generation, led by world-class stars including Erling Haaland. Having secured solid qualification in Europe, Norway no longer presents itself as a mere physical outsider, but as a formidable attacking collective.
According to the competition format, finishing top of the group helps avoid a big hurdle in the Round of 16, so Didier Deschamps will have to field his best XI to counter the Scandinavian power.
For this final group-stage clash, the Blues return to the New York pitch and to a familiar kickoff time for French fans, Friday, 26 June 2026 at 9:00 PM. Unsurprisingly, the match will be broadcast live and free-to-air on M6, which will carry the Blues’ entire group stage. Subscribers will also be able to watch the game on beIN Sports 1.
