Norway and France Lineups: Haaland and Ødegaard Benched

Norway and France are set for a direct clash to determine the top spot in Group I of the World Cup. Both teams have secured two victories so far, guaranteeing their progression to the next stage. However, "Les Bleus" enter this encounter as group leaders, holding a slight advantage in goal difference.

The "Vikings" are playing with immense confidence in their first World Cup appearance in 28 years. In their opening match, Erling Haaland and company thrashed Iraq 4-1, followed by a 3-2 triumph over Senegal. Ståle Solbakken's squad is enjoying a strong run, having secured 14 wins in their last 18 matches.

France has certainly lived up to its status as one of the tournament favorites so far. "Les Bleus," who reached the final in the last World Cup, defeated Senegal 3-1 and Iraq 3-0. France needs only a draw in this match to secure first place in the group. The team will be without Didier Deschamps, who returned home for his mother's funeral. In his absence, assistant coach Guy Stéphan will lead the team.

However, a direct showdown between star strikers Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland will not happen, as the Manchester City forward has been left on the substitutes' bench. Martin Ødegaard will also be alongside him, not featuring in the starting lineup. In contrast, Mbappé starts alongside Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué.