France Seek Victory for Grieving Coach Didier Deschamps

France will take on Norway in their final Group I match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with extra motivation as the players hope to deliver a performance worthy of head coach Didier Deschamps, who is temporarily away following the death of his mother.

Deschamps travelled back to France to attend the funeral, leaving assistant coach Guy Stephan in charge of the team for Friday's encounter.

Despite the emotional circumstances, the French squad remains focused on finishing the group stage strongly before their coach returns.

Midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni said the players are determined to make Deschamps proud during a difficult period for him and his family.

"It is a difficult time for everyone. Our objective is to make him as proud as possible," Tchouaméni said.

Assistant coach Stephan admitted the situation has been challenging but stressed that the team's priority is to stay united and maintain normal preparations ahead of the match.

France have already secured qualification for the Round of 32 after winning their opening two matches. A draw against Norway will be enough for Les Bleus to finish as Group I winners because they currently hold a superior goal difference over their Scandinavian opponents.

The French side will, however, be without defender William Saliba, who has been ruled out with a back injury. Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix is expected to replace him in the starting lineup.

France will now look to close out the group stage on a positive note while paying tribute to their absent manager with another strong display.