Dembele's Hat-Trick Propels France to 4-1 World Cup Win Over Norway
In a World Cup Group I match on June 26, 2026, Ousmane Dembele scored a hat-trick within the first 32 minutes to lead France to a 4-1 victory over Norway at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
Dembele struck with his left foot on all three occasions, requiring just three shots to complete the feat. His first goal came from a diagonal pass from Kylian Mbappe, as Dembele dribbled past defender Fredrik André Bjørkan and shot past goalkeeper Egil Selvik. The second goal saw him cut in from the right, teasing defenders with ball control before curling a shot into the net. He completed the hat-trick with a similar move from the left side, again beating Selvik.
The victory was never in doubt after Dembele's early onslaught, though Norway had a chance to reduce the deficit when they earned a penalty in the second half. However, the penalty was missed, and France later added a fourth goal through a substitute.
Dembele's performance highlighted his technical ability and efficiency. The 29-year-old winger has developed into a key player for France after a period of inconsistency earlier in his career. He is known for his two-footedness, dribbling, and pressing off the ball.
Kylian Mbappe, who assisted the first goal, and Erling Haaland, who was largely absent for Norway due to injury, were expected to be the main attractions, but Dembele stole the show with his clinical finishing.
The win puts France in a strong position in Group I, while Norway faces an uphill battle to advance.
