(Credit - Khaleej Times)
Dembele's Historic Treble Lifts France to Group I Summit
Ousmane Dembele scored a first-half hat-trick as France beat a second-string Norway 4-1 in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I match. The win left France top of Group I on goal difference, with Dembele’s treble noted as the first first-half World Cup hat-trick of the 21st century. France’s national team, led by Dembele’s impressive performance, will be affected by this win, as it strengthens their position in the qualifying group.
France’s 4-1 victory over Norway marks a significant milestone in their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, with Dembele’s hat-trick being a rare scoring feat at the World Cup level. This win will have a direct impact on the daily routine of French football fans, who will be closely following the team’s progress in the qualifying group.
The outcome of this match has implications for France’s position in Group I, where goal difference can be a decisive factor in determining the group leaders when points are level. As France continues its qualifying campaign, the team’s focus on securing points and improving their goal difference will be crucial in determining their chances of advancing to the next stage.
The fact that Norway fielded a second-string side in this match may have contributed to the margin of France’s victory, but Dembele’s exceptional performance was the key factor in securing the win. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign continues, France’s ability to secure high-margin wins like this one will be essential in maintaining their position at the top of Group I.



