The action-packed Friday at the 2026 World Cup delivered high-stakes results in Groups G, H, and I: France solidified its status as a favorite, Spain sent Uruguay packing for the second consecutive group stage, and Belgium revived its campaign with a decisive victory when there was no room for error.
France Crushes Norway with Dembélé's Stellar Performance
Ousmane Dembélé, the reigning Ballon d'Or winner, netted a hat-trick at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford to lead France to a 4-1 triumph over Norway, securing the top spot in Group I.
The Norwegians, having already secured their advancement, fielded a rotated squad with an eye on the next round, which allowed France to dominate from the start.
Nevertheless, Norway progressed as the group's runner-up and is set to face Ivory Coast in the Round of 16.
In the group's other match, Senegal demolished Iraq 5-0—the largest win in the group—and finished third, now awaiting to see if they secure one of the best third-place spots in the tournament.
Spain Ends Uruguay's Hopes in Guadalajara
A goal by Álex Baena in the 42nd minute was all Spain needed to defeat Uruguay 1-0 at Akron Stadium in Guadalajara, clinching the top position in Group H.
La Celeste, needing a win to stay in the tournament, again struggled with offensive issues that had plagued them in previous matches, resulting in their elimination at the group stage for the second time in a row, mirroring their fate in Qatar 2022.
Under Marcelo Bielsa, Uruguay never found consistency, closing a tournament also marred by Agustín Canobbio's red card and internal tensions, including star Federico Valverde's complaints about the physical demands of training.
Cape Verde Makes History
The other standout from Group H was Cape Verde, which drew 0-0 with Saudi Arabia, achieving a historic qualification for the Round of 16 in its first World Cup appearance.
The "Blue Sharks," hailing from a nation of merely 500,000 people, finished second in the group without a single win, relying on a sturdy defense to advance.
Their reward is a monumental clash against Argentina on July 3 in Miami. Saudi Arabia, unable to breach their defensive line, was eliminated.
Belgium Responds When Needed Most
After two disappointing draws against Egypt and Iran, Belgium needed a victory to stay in the tournament. They delivered a 5-1 thrashing of New Zealand, clinching the top spot in Group G on goal difference.
Leandro Trossard scored twice, supported by goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Alexis Saelemaekers. Elijah Just scored for the Kiwis, who were eliminated.
Elsewhere in the group, Egypt and Iran drew 1-1 in Seattle: Mahmoud Saber scored for the Pharaohs, while Ramin Rezaeian equalized for Iran, which also had a goal controversially disallowed in the final moments.
Egypt advanced as the group's runner-up with five points, while Iran awaits other results to see if they qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.
With these results, the 2026 World Cup begins to showcase its most formidable contenders for the knockout stage: France reaffirmed its title ambitions, Belgium found its form at a pivotal moment, Spain advanced with authority, and Cape Verde etched one of the most memorable chapters in its football history.
World Cup 2026: Key Questions and Insights
How did France perform against Norway?
France dominated Norway with a 4-1 victory, led by Ousmane Dembélé's hat-trick, securing the top spot in Group I.
What was the deciding factor in Spain's win over Uruguay?
A goal by Álex Baena in the 42nd minute secured Spain's 1-0 win over Uruguay, allowing them to top Group H.
What historical achievement did Cape Verde accomplish?
Cape Verde qualified for the Round of 16 for the first time in its World Cup history, despite not winning any group stage matches.