FIFA blocks France's black armband tribute for Deschamps' mother

France entered the group‑stage match against Norway at the 2026 World Cup on Friday without manager Didier Deschamps, who missed the game after his mother’s death, and the French Football Federation’s proposal to wear black armbands was rejected by FIFA. The FIFA decision, reported by The Athletic’s Amy Lawrence, left the French side without the planned visual tribute. The governing body cited its regulations as the reason for the denial. Initially the French Football Federation told journalists a minute’s silence would be observed for Deschamps’ mother. Minutes later the federation clarified that FIFA had indicated the silence was intended for the victims of the recent deadly earthquake in Venezuela. Didier Deschamps has been France’s manager since 2012. During his spell he guided the team to a World Cup title in 2018 and a runner‑up finish in 2022.

Guy Stéphan hails Dembélé's clinical display as France eye group lead

The French squad is listed among the tournament favourites, with superstars Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé competing in the Golden Boot race. Longtime assistant coach Guy Stéphan took charge of the team on the pitch for the Norway encounter. France burst out to a 4‑1 victory over Norway, securing a flawless 3‑0 record in group play. The win reinforced their position at the top of the group ahead of the knockout round.

Dembélé’s hat-trick seals France’s third straight World Cup win

Ousmane Dembélé, the reigning Ballon d’Or winner, completed the second‑quickest hat trick in World Cup history during the match. His performance highlighted the attacking firepower of the French side. France’s reward will be a quarter‑final clash against the third‑place team at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Tuesday. The upcoming fixture will test whether the squad can maintain its momentum without Deschamps on the sideline.