The most anticipated individual matchup of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage is not happening. At least not today.
France revealed its starting XI for the June 26 Group I fixture against Norway, and the Norwegian response was immediate: Erling Haaland, the most dangerous striker on the planet, will watch from the bench.
Norway manager Ståle Solbakken made the call to rotate heavily, with Haaland joined on the bench by playmaker Martin Ødegaard.
Who is actually playing
France’s lineup is not rotating. Kylian Mbappé is in the starting eleven, supported by a defensive core featuring goalkeeper Mike Maignan, right back Jules Koundé, and center back Dayot Upamecano.
