(Mbappe v Haaland. Photo Credit: Goal.com)
A blockbuster showdown between two of the tournament’s hottest strikers is set to headline Friday’s World Cup action as France take on Norway in a crucial Group I decider at Foxborough, outside Boston.
Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe and Manchester City’s Erling Haaland arrive at the fixture in blistering form, both tied on four goals apiece in the race for the Golden Boot, trailing only Lionel Messi who leads with five.
France hold a slight edge heading into the tie, with their superior goal difference meaning a draw would be enough to secure top spot in the group.
Les Bleus have looked commanding so far, brushing aside both Senegal and Iraq with considerable authority. Norway have been equally impressive, however, routing Iraq 4-1 in their opener before edging Senegal 3-2.
Haaland, experiencing his first World Cup, has embraced the tournament both on and off the pitch with infectious enthusiasm.
The 25-year-old played down suggestions of an upset, acknowledging France as favourites while insisting he was unbothered by the prospect of facing them.
“They’re probably going to win against us, they’re probably going to win the whole tournament,” he said, while also expressing immense pride in being part of a Norwegian side that has now won 12 competitive games in a row.
France’s preparations have been disrupted by the absence of manager Didier Deschamps, who left the team’s camp following the passing of his mother.
Assistant coach Guy Stephan will oversee the side until Deschamps returns.
“I am thinking a lot about Didier and his family. I am just trying to make a difficult situation as normal as possible,” Stephan said.
Elsewhere on Friday, Spain look to seal top spot in Group H against Uruguay in Guadalajara, while Cape Verde continue their fairytale run against Saudi Arabia.
In Group G, Egypt face Iran in Seattle in a fixture that has attracted controversy after the game was designated as the city’s “Pride Match,” drawing objections from both Iranian and Egyptian officials.
Belgium, featuring veterans Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, will also be in action against New Zealand as they bid to reach the knockout rounds.
