France were simply a class above in this Group I opener. Didier Deschamps deployed a high-pressing 4-3-3 that immediately targeted Norway's vulnerability in the absence of Sander Berge — the engine room that typically allows Ødegaard to operate freely was exposed without its anchor. Tchouaméni and Koné dominated the physical battle, while Zaïre-Emery's energy and quick passing combinations repeatedly bypassed Norway's mid-block. Mbappé's movement was exceptional: he drifted into half-spaces, stretching Norway's defensive shape and creating corridors for Dembélé and Thuram to exploit. Norway's best hope was always Haaland on the counter, and he duly delivered from the spot, but he touched the ball just 19 times — a damning indictment of how well Saliba and Upamecano managed the space behind France's press. The tactical shift at half-time — Olise for Dembélé — gave France a different dimension on the right: more direct, more willing to isolate defenders in 1v1s. Norway's Bjørkan, excellent going forward, was exposed defensively and it was that flank that produced the decisive third goal. Norway will take heart from Haaland's clinical penalty and Ødegaard's creative endeavour, but they face an uphill battle to qualify from Group I. France, meanwhile, look every inch a tournament favourite.

• Mbappé's brace (18', 78') gives him 5 World Cup goals across two tournaments — the youngest player to reach that mark for France.
• Haaland converted Norway's only clear-cut chance — a penalty — underlining how isolated he was against France's high defensive line.
• France's xG of 3.1 vs Norway's 1.4 reflects the gulf in class; Les Bleus registered 8 shots on target to Norway's 4.
• Théo Hernandez's assist for Thuram's header came from a 72-metre attacking run — France's left flank was a constant threat all evening.
• Norway's midfield, missing the suspended Sander Berge, was overrun in central areas: France won 14 of 19 duels in the middle third.
• Olise's half-time introduction proved decisive — he directly created the 3rd goal and won 5 of 6 duels after coming on.
• Norway's 38% possession was their lowest in a competitive fixture since their 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign.