Both France and Norway had already secured their places in the Round of 32 after winning both of their first two matches. However, the clash in Boston, USA, on the morning of June 27th still held great significance because the winning team would almost certainly avoid strong opponents in the knockout bracket.
The French team is currently leading Group I after victories against Senegal (3-1) and Iraq (3-0). Norway also impressed by beating Iraq 4-1 and then overcoming Senegal 3-2. Both teams have 6 points, but "Les Bleus" have a better goal difference.
The match for the top spot in the group in Boston, USA , between France and Norway promises to be a heated affair. (Photo: FIFAWORLDCUP)
In terms of collective strength, the French team is still considered superior. Didier Deschamps' team boasts impressive squad depth with numerous stars playing in top European leagues. However, Norway has shown that they are no longer a fleeting phenomenon but have become a team capable of competing with any opponent.
The biggest highlight of the match was the race between Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland. After two matches, both have scored 4 goals, placing them at the top of the "Top Scorer" list.
Mbappe continues to demonstrate the class of a world champion. His speed, ability to create breakthroughs, and sharpness in the penalty area make him the most dangerous attacking threat for the French national team.
Meanwhile, Haaland is enjoying the most successful tournament of his career at the international level. The Norwegian striker is showcasing his fearsome goal-scoring instincts with clean and effective finishes.
It's possible both teams will make personnel changes to conserve energy for the knockout rounds. However, the opportunity to compete for the "Top Scorer" title could motivate Mbappe and Haaland to play with the utmost determination. Their goals would not only give their teams an advantage but also create a turning point in their individual race.
In the other Group I match taking place simultaneously in Toronto, Canada, Senegal and Iraq have virtually no chance of advancing. Nevertheless, this match still holds symbolic significance for both teams after their less-than-expected performances in the first two rounds.
Senegal is considered slightly superior due to their experience and squad quality. The African representative previously caused many difficulties for France and only narrowly lost to Norway. Meanwhile, Iraq has struggled against strong opponents, losing to both France and Norway and only scoring one goal.
The burden on "maestro" Kevin De Bruyne
Despite being considered a "seed" at the 2026 World Cup, the Belgian national team has been disappointing, only managing 2 points after 2 matches. Kevin De Bruyne and his teammates need to beat New Zealand in their match at 10:00 AM on June 27th to have any hope of advancing to the next round.
Two consecutive draws against Egypt and Iran have put the "Red Devils" in a position where they cannot afford to slip up. With a quality squad including Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, Youri Tielemans, and Thibaut Courtois, the European representatives are still considered far superior to their opponents.
With the skillful individual technique and extensive experience of "maestro" De Bruyne in midfield, coach Rudi Garcia's team demonstrated superiority over their opponents in ball control and diverse attacking play. However, Belgium's attacking effectiveness was low, lacking sharpness at crucial moments. Nevertheless, against a less-fancied opponent, this was an opportunity for Lukaku, De Bruyne, and others to find their scoring touch.
Meanwhile, New Zealand is at the bottom of the group. The Oceania representatives caused a surprise by drawing 2-2 with Iran, before being defeated 3-1 by Egypt. The door to qualification is not yet closed for New Zealand, if they can pull off an upset against Belgium in the final match.
Considering the balance of power, international experience, and personnel quality, the Belgian team is clearly superior. In a situation where they must win to secure their own qualification, it's highly likely that the "Red Devils" will play offensively from the start and aim for all three points. A comfortable victory for the European side is the most probable scenario in this match.
Simultaneously, Egypt and Iran are playing. The North African team holds a significant advantage in the race for qualification, leading Group G with 4 points after two matches. A win in their final group stage match would secure their place. Meanwhile, Iran has 2 points, temporarily sitting second in the group, and is also aiming for a win in their final group stage match to guarantee a spot in the knockout round of the 2026 World Cup.
T. Phuoc
Source: https://nld.com.vn/phap-na-uy-tranh-ngoi-nhat-bang-196260625195153736.htm
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