Norway and France are locked in a battle for top spot in Group I at World Cup 2026.
The European nations each sit on maximum points after two matches played, with Les Bleus currently leading the race by virtue of a superior goal difference.
Erling Haaland (4) and Kylian Mbappe (4) are scoring for fun in North America, while Martin Odegaard (2) and Michael Olise (3) are chipping in with assists aplenty.
The big stars are thriving on the World Cup stage, and with both teams already qualified for the Round of 32, this should be an absolute belter of a game.
Check out our full betting online preview below, and we have picked out some more tips based on the latest World Cup odds.
And if you are new to the NetBet experience, make sure to activate our Welcome Offer before kick-off in Boston on Friday night. Place a qualifying £10 bet to receive £20 in Free Bets!
Where can I watch Norway vs France in the UK?
Norway vs France will be broadcast live on ITV1, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm UK time.
Norway vs France Preview
Recent results
Norway secured their place in the Round of 32 with a 3-2 victory over Senegal, courtesy of a brace from Haaland. It was the striker’s second double at this tournament following his heroics in the 4-1 win vs Iraq.
France beat Iraq 3-0 on Monday night to book a spot in the knockouts, with Mbappe bagging another brace and Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele also getting himself on the scoresheet. Les Bleus’ opening match saw them come from a goal down to beat Senegal 3-1, with goals from Mbappe either side of Bradley Barcola strike.
Head-to-head record
Norway and France met 16 times previously, with Les Bleus claiming seven victories to the Vikings’ five.
The most recent clash between the pair in May 2014 resulted in a 4-0 victory for France, though three of the last five games ended as a draw.
Team news
Julian Ryerson is the major injury doubt for Norway after the Borussia Dortmund defender was substituted early in the win over Senegal. Although, Marcus Holmgren Pedersen was his replacement in that match, and the Torino star went on to score!
Didier Deschamps has no issues with the squad, though the France boss will not be on the touchline for this fixture after the tragic passing of his mother. Guy Stephan is set to take temporary charge of the team.
Norway vs France Odds
*All odds are subject to change
France are the clear favourites ahead of kick-off at a price of 1.58. A win for Norway is at odds of 5.00, while the draw is 4.10.
Norway vs France Betting Tips
Player to score or assist – Martin Odegaard @ 3.59
Norway skipper Odegaard has looked somewhere close to his best at World Cup 2026, with two assists in the first two games. The Arsenal playmaker is in a rich vein of form at international level, tallying 11 goal contributions in his last nine appearances. So this selection in a potentially high-scoring affair just screams value.
Anytime goalscorer – Erling Haaland @ 2.40
Haaland has unsurprisingly taken to World Cup football like a duck to water. Four goals in his first two matches at the tournament, the Manchester City striker is just ridiculously efficient on the international stage. An overall record of 59 goals in 52 appearances for Norway just further highlights how good of a pick Haaland is in this market – especially on the rare occasions when he is priced higher than evens. Take full advantage!
Anytime goalscorer – Kylian Mbappe @ 1.95
Mbappe is hunting down Lionel Messi at the top of the World Cup scoring charts. The Argentine magician is on 18 goals following his brace vs Austria, while Mbappe has now equalled previous record holder Miroslav Klose (16 goals) following his double against Iraq. It is rare a game in this competition passes by in which the Frenchman does not deliver a moment of magic.
Both teams to score – Yes @ 1.72
As we have gone goal heavy with our first three tips, it feels only right to back this BTTS pick. It is a bet which has landed in each of Norway’s last four games, as well as in seven of the previous eight matches.
When you choose NetBet Sport, you can enjoy a whole range of top-quality sports and markets. Whatever you choose, always remember to bet responsibly. Here at NetBet, player wellbeing is our number one priority – check out our Responsible Gambling tips and tools page for more information. When the fun stops, stop.
