Norway vs France

Norway are back at a World Cup after a long absence, finally building a side around a generational striker and genuine attacking firepower. France remain the deepest squad on the planet. Likely with group seeding on the line, this is one of the standout last-round fixtures.

France's strength is unmatched depth and individual quality — Kylian Mbappé and an elite supporting cast, with midfield control and high-class options across the pitch. Their flaw is a back line in transition that can be exposed by elite movement and direct play.

Norway are no longer a defensive minnow: their attack carries a world-class focal point plus genuine creative support, capable of hurting anyone if given service. Defensively they are the weaker unit and can be opened up, which makes their games high-event rather than cagey.

France should have the edge in overall quality and control, but Norway's attacking threat is real and France's defensive uncertainty is a recurring theme. Norway will back themselves to score; France almost always do. With both back lines beatable and both attacks potent, an open, goal-bearing game is the likeliest script.

France are favoured to win, but a clean sheet for either side looks unlikely given Norway's firepower and France's defensive question marks. We back Both Teams to Score at 1.70 with medium confidence — a read on two strong attacks against two beatable defences rather than a call on the result.