Criticized after a lackluster performance against Senegal, Ousmane Dembélé responded in the best possible way. The French winger, crowned Ballon d'Or winner for 2025, reminded everyone why he is considered the best player in the world by delivering a virtuoso performance against Norway (4-1) in the third match of the 2026 World Cup group stage.

 

Arriving at the World Cup with the label of the most anticipated player on the planet, the Parisian knew that each of his performances would be scrutinized. Despite France's victory against Senegal (3-1), his performance drew considerable criticism, with some observers believing he had missed the mark.

 

The former FC Barcelona player had, however, begun to silence the doubts during the second match against Iraq. Scoring a goal and providing an assist in France's 3-0 victory, he had rediscovered his effectiveness and confidence.

 

But it was against Norway that Dembélé truly showcased his full talent. From the opening minutes, he displayed a completely different side of himself. Played through by a magnificent through ball from Kylian Mbappé, he opened the scoring with an unstoppable, angled shot, quickly putting France on the right track (7th ^minute ).

 

Unstoppable on his flank, the French striker then unleashed a flurry of accelerations, dribbles, and runs in behind. A true nightmare for the Norwegian defense, he consistently made the difference in one-on-one situations before completing his hat trick with two superb curling shots (20th ^and 32nd ^minutes ), confirming his immense talent.

 

Substituted to applause in the 65th minute, Dembélé left the pitch after a superb performance. His replacement, Bradley Barcola, also distinguished himself by delivering an excellent cross that Désiré Doué converted to further seal the victory for Les Bleus.

 

With this performance, Ousmane Dembélé sent a strong message to his critics. The criticism lasted only one match. Great champions respond on the pitch, and the 2025 Ballon d'Or winner has once again proven that he is capable of raising his game when expectations are highest. As the knockout stages approach, France can count on an Ousmane Dembélé at the peak of his powers.