Norway could be without star striker Erling Haaland for their crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match against France after he suffered an ankle injury in training, according to reports.
Haaland has been in outstanding form at the tournament, scoring four goals in two matches to help Norway secure an early place in the Round of 32. His expected battle with France captain Kylian Mbappe was set to be one of the biggest attractions of the group stage, but his fitness is now under a cloud.
Haaland faces late fitness check
The injury reportedly occurred during Norway’s final training session ahead of the France match. Although according to ESPN, the issue is not believed to be serious, the team’s medical staff will make a final assessment before kick-off.
🚨 Norway will rest their FULL STARTING XI vs France today!
— Sourabh (@vellasrv) June 26, 2026
Haaland + Ødegaard + up to 10 key players on the bench 😱
Haaland vs Mbappé agenda officially ruined? 👀 pic.twitter.com/FkD5t0en13
With qualification already secured after victories over Iraq and Senegal, Norway are unlikely to take any unnecessary risks with their leading goalscorer. Head coach Stale Solbakken has also hinted at rotating his squad after a physically demanding group stage.
If Haaland is unavailable, Norway will have to reshape their attack for one of their toughest tests of the tournament.
France chasing top spot
France have also qualified for the Round of 32 and need only a draw to finish top of Group I because of their superior goal difference.
A first-place finish would also allow Les Bleus to avoid additional travel before the knockout stage, making the result important despite both teams already advancing.
A final decision on Haaland’s availability is expected shortly before kick-off. If the striker is ruled out, football fans will miss the much-anticipated showdown between Haaland and Mbappe, with Norway instead focusing on keeping their star forward fit for the knockout rounds.
