Kylian Mbappé and France won big on Friday, defeating a Haaland-less Norway 4-1.
What happened?
France never blinked, punishing Norway for preserving fresh legs rather than chasing the top spot.
Kylian Mbappé looked like the tournament's defining star, stretching Norway's back line with every touch.
Why it matters for Kylian Mbappé
The movement was sharp, the transitions were ruthless, and France never allowed Norway to believe an upset was possible.
France finished atop the group with a perfect nine points, scoring 10 goals across three matches while conceding just one.
What comes next?
The performance reinforced what many already believed: if you're going to lift the World Cup, there's a good chance you'll have to go through France.
As for Norway, the gamble may still pay off, with a rested squad having every opportunity to make noise in the knockout rounds.
On Friday, they were second-best from the opening whistle, and France looked every bit like a team capable of going all the way.
The French team loaded with world-class talent made Norway pay for waving the white flag before kickoff.
Championship teams don't simply win group deciders, they make statements, and France's 4-1 victory was a statement win.
Kylian Mbappé reminded everyone why France enters every major competition as a favorite.
The result was a convincing 4-1 victory for France, with Kylian Mbappé once again looking like the tournament's defining star.
France's perfect nine points in Group I sets them up for a strong run in the knockout stages.
Kylian Mbappé and France will look to continue their winning ways in the next round, and their performance against Norway suggests they have what it takes to go all the way.