Two of the world’s great strikers go head to head tonight when Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland face off in World Cup Group I.
Both Norway and France have already secured qualification for the knockout rounds after winning their opening two matches, but first place remains up for grabs heading into this showdown.
Norway have enjoyed an outstanding return to the World Cup after a 28-year absence. Stale Solbakken’s side opened their campaign with a commanding 4-1 win over Iraq before edging past Senegal 3-2 to make it two wins from two.
Haaland has been at the heart of their success, scoring four goals in the opening two matches and establishing himself as one of the tournament’s leading scorers.
Despite collecting six points, Norway sit second in Group I due to France’s superior goal difference. A victory on Friday would see them leapfrog Les Bleus and claim top spot.
France, however, have looked every bit like one of the tournament favourites.
Didier Deschamps’ side opened with a 3-1 win over Senegal before comfortably dispatching Iraq 3-0.
Mbappe has been in sensational form, matching Haaland’s tally of four goals and once again proving the focal point of France’s attack.
Where to watch Norway vs France: TV channel, online live stream
The match takes place on Friday, June 26 at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, near Boston.
In the UK, kick-off is at 20:00 BST, with the match broadcast live across ITV’s channels. Fans can also stream the game online through ITVX.
Norway vs France stats
- Norway have won both of their Group I matches
- Erling Haaland has scored four goals in two World Cup appearances
- The Vikings have scored seven goals in their first two matches
- France have also won both of their group-stage fixtures
- Kylian Mbappe has matched Haaland with four goals in the tournament
- Les Bleus require only a draw to finish top of Group I
- France have scored six goals and conceded just one so far
- Norway’s last victory over France came in August 2010
