Already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 16, France have no intention of easing off against Norway on Friday (9 p.m.). With top spot in the group still at stake, Didier Deschamps is expected to rely on two Paris Saint-Germain stars, Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué, both tipped to start.
The two PSG players are set to play key roles in France’s attack. After briefly being a doubt due to minor fitness concerns, Dembélé is expected to start on the right wing. Doué, meanwhile, returns to the starting lineup after beginning the match against Iraq on the bench. The two European champions will join Michael Olise and Kylian Mbappé in an exciting attacking quartet.
France Aim for First Place with PSG Duo Leading the Attack
In defense, William Saliba is expected to be rested, with Maxence Lacroix likely replacing him alongside Dayot Upamecano. Malo Gusto and Theo Hernandez should occupy the full-back positions in front of goalkeeper Mike Maignan, while Aurélien Tchouaméni is set to return in midfield alongside Manu Koné.
Warren Zaïre-Emery, however, is not expected to start. The PSG midfielder has yet to play a single minute in the tournament but could come off the bench depending on the course of the match. Although qualification has already been secured, France are determined to finish first in the group to secure a more favorable knockout draw and reduce travel during the latter stages. “We have to win every game and finish first,” Tchouaméni insisted ahead of the match.
The projected France lineup is: Maignan – Gusto, Upamecano, Lacroix, Theo Hernandez – Koné, Tchouaméni – Dembélé, Olise, Doué – Mbappé.
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