Ousmane Dembélé finally broke his tournament duck as France continued to swat aside Group I opponents, dismissing Iraq in a weather-interrupted but comfortable victory. However, with a table-topping clash against Norway on the horizon, questions are being asked about whether such untroubled progress could leave Les Bleus undercooked for the knockout rounds.
Dembélé ends 19-game wait on the biggest stage
The winger's 20th appearance at a major international tournament – across World Cups and European Championships – had long been a source of frustration. His pace and trickery had troubled defenders, but a goal had proved elusive. That changed in the 34th minute when Ousmane Dembélé cut inside and fired low into the corner, the relief obvious as he was mobbed by teammates.
It was a milestone that Didier Deschamps had predicted would come. "Ousmane has been decisive in many games even without scoring, but for a forward, goals bring confidence," the France coach said. "Tonight he got his reward."
Mbappé and Olise continue red-hot form
If Dembélé's strike was the headline, the supporting cast was equally impressive. blessing or curse?
Friday's meeting with Norway in Boston will decide who tops the group, though Erling Haaland has already sounded a resigned note. "Honestly I don't care that much," the Erling Haaland told Fox. "They're probably going to win against us. They're probably going to win the whole tournament."
"They're probably going to win against us. They're probably going to win the whole tournament."
Deschamps will dismiss such talk as mind games, but the ease with which France have navigated the group – beating Norway 3-0, Iraq 3-0, and Canada 2-0 – has prompted debate. History shows that teams who cruise through the early rounds sometimes struggle when the intensity spikes. At Euro 2020, France themselves were shocked by Switzerland in the last 16 after a perfect group stage.
Key Takeaways
- Dembélé's relief: A first tournament goal at the 20th attempt removes a mental block and adds another dimension to France's attack.
- Olise's emergence: With four assists in three games, the midfielder is making the playmaker role his own.
- Haaland's realism: The Norway striker's candid assessment highlights the gulf, but also the pressure on France.
- Group-stage hangover? History warns that untroubled progress can lead to complacency in knockout football.
Quick Facts
Match: France 3-0 Iraq
France scorers: Kylian Mbappé (2), Ousmane Dembélé
Assists: Michael Olise (2)
Dembélé milestone: First goal in a major tournament on his 20th appearance
Next fixture: France vs Norway, June 26, Gillette Stadium, Boston
Source: The Guardian