Norway’s possible starting XI against France at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The “Red Vikings” are looking to take top spot in Group I from the World Cup runners-up at Boston Stadium.

Norway take on France this Thursday in one of the most highly anticipated matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage, with first place in Group I on the line at Boston Stadium.

Here's a look at the projected starting XI expected to be named by Ståle Solbakken.

THE PROJECTED XI

Ørjan Nyland is expected to keep his place in goal after starting Norway's first two World Cup matches.

Solbakken is likely to stick with a 4-4-3 formation, with Marcus Pedersen, Kristoffer Ajer, Torbjørn Heggem, and David Møller Wolfe making up the back line. Pedersen is expected to replace Julian Ryerson, who suffered a suspected muscle tear during Norway's match against Senegal.

The midfield is projected to remain unchanged, featuring Martin Ødegaard, Sander Berge, Fredrik Aursnes, and Antonio Nusa, the same quartet that started against Iraq and Senegal.

Up front, France will have to contend with the formidable striking duo of Alexander Sørloth and Erling Haaland.

Among the options off the bench, Leo Østigård, Patrick Berg, Andreas Schjelderup, and Oscar Bobb are all expected to play important roles and could provide the spark Norway need if called upon.

THE PERMUTATIONS

The Red Vikings know exactly what's at stake. A victory over the reigning World Cup runners-up would send Norway to the top of Group I, setting up a Round of 32 clash on June 30 in New Jersey/New York against one of the best third-placed teams from Groups D, F, G, or H.

A draw or defeat would leave Norway in second place, meaning a Round of 32 meeting with Ivory Coast in Dallas, Texas, also on June 30.