Norway vs France Predictions: Is France the Best Bet for June 26th?

The final round of the group stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up. June 26 is the sixteenth match day of the tournament and the third day of third-round group play.

Every team from Groups G, H, and I will be in action on Friday. I'll focus on a contest from each group and a game from each time window on Friday.

Can France win the game outright, cover the 0.5-goal spread, and earn 3 points in their final group game against Norway on Friday? Will Cape Verde get a key victory in Houston against Saudi Arabia? Can Egypt win by 1 goal or more and get a potentially significant group play win over Iran on Friday?

I'll make picks for the 3 specified contests below. Continue reading for our World Cup Best Bets June 26 article.

Norway vs. France — Time & How to Watch

Norway vs. France Odds

Odds accurate as of Friday, June 26, 2026, via TheSpread.com.

Norway vs France Prediction June 26 Game Result Pick

France will cover the 0.5-goal spread against Norway on Friday to lock up Group I. Les Bleus arrive in elite form following a clinical 3-0 victory over Iraq, showcasing a stifling tactical block and a superior attacking front line.

While Norway boasts Erling Haaland’s high expected goals (xG) metrics, France’s World Cup pedigree—winning in 2018 and reaching the 2022 final—gives them a distinct mental edge. Expect France to dictate possession, exploiting the defensive frailties Norway displayed during their chaotic 3-2 win against Senegal.

Motivated to win the group and avoid a potential matchup with Brazil, France's forwards like Kylian Mbappé will ruthlessly punish any Norwegian defensive miscues.

Pick: France -0.5 (-180)

Cape Verde vs. Saudi Arabia — Time & How to Watch

Cape Verde vs. Saudi Arabia Odds

Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia Prediction June 26 Game Result Pick

Cape Verde is in a good spot to cover the 0.5-goal spread against Saudi Arabia on Friday night. They will be backed by some favorable situational trends.

The Blue Sharks have shocked Group H, drawing Spain 0-0 and Uruguay 2-2, showcasing a sturdy defense anchored by Logan Costa. Conversely, Saudi Arabia's abysmal form continues following a 4-0 collapse against Spain, highlighting a dismal tournament history with 13 losses in their last 18 World Cup matches.

Cape Verde's direct attacking threat via Ryan Mendes will ruthlessly exploit those defensive gaps. Motivated to reach the knockouts in their historic tournament debut, Cape Verde holds a decisive edge in this contest and will win it outight.

Pick: Cape Verde -0.5 (+160)

Egypt vs. Iran — Time & How to Watch

Egypt vs. Iran Odds

Egypt vs Iran Prediction June 26 Game Result Pick

Egypt will cover the 0.5-goal spread against a stagnant Iran on Friday night. The Pharaohs currently lead Group G with a +2 goal differential, bolstered by a 3-1 victory over New Zealand.

While Iran currently sits in second place in the group, they will likely need a victory to ensure that they advance. That reality could open things up for the Pharaohs. Historically, Egypt has sought a deep World Cup run to cement this golden generation’s legacy. Their lethal attack, anchored by Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, gives them a considerable tactical edge.

Snagging the favorites in this contest is the smart play. Egypt has earned results in both of their group games, and should prove to be too much for an Iran side that is barely clinging to hopes of moving on in the tournament.

Pick: Egypt -0.5 (+145)

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up. If you want in on the action and are new to soccer betting, check out our how to bet on soccer guide.

Today's World Cup Predictions

1. France -0.5 (-180)
2. Cape Verde -0.5 (+160)
3. Egypt -0.5 (+145)