World Cup 2026: Michael Olise stars with a hat-trick as France beat Northern Ireland 3-1 in final friendly

France completed their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 3-1 victory over Northern Ireland on Monday night, thanks to a superb hat-trick from Michael Olise.

The talented forward delivered an outstanding performance, scoring all three goals for Les Bleus as they secured a confidence-boosting win in their final friendly before the tournament begins.

Olise Opens the Scoring

France dominated much of the first half and eventually found the breakthrough in the 43rd minute through Olise.

The forward reacted quickest after a rebound fell kindly inside the penalty area, firing the ball into the net to hand the hosts a deserved lead heading into the interval.

The goal capped an impressive opening half from the attacker, who consistently threatened the Northern Ireland defence with his movement and creativity.

France Extend Their Advantage

Olise wasted little time making his mark after the restart.

Just four minutes into the second half, the French forward latched onto an opportunity inside the box and struck a first-time effort beyond the goalkeeper and into the left corner to double France’s advantage.

The goal further underlined France’s control of the contest as they continued to create chances against a determined Northern Ireland side.

Northern Ireland Fight Back

Despite trailing by two goals, Northern Ireland responded positively and reduced the deficit midway through the second half.

In the 64th minute, Shea Charles delivered an excellent pass into the penalty area, where Patrick Kelly finished confidently into the bottom right corner to make it 2-1.

The goal briefly raised hopes of a comeback and injected fresh energy into the visitors’ performance.

Olise Completes Hat-Trick

Any hopes of a Northern Ireland recovery were ultimately ended by Olise’s third goal of the evening.

The French attacker produced a moment of individual brilliance in the 74th minute, driving towards the edge of the box before unleashing a powerful effort that struck the post and bounced into the net.

The goal completed a memorable hat-trick and capped a man-of-the-match display from the forward.

France Head to World Cup in High Spirits

The victory provides France with valuable momentum as they turn their attention to the World Cup.

Olise’s clinical display will be particularly encouraging for the French coaching staff as they prepare for the challenges ahead in the tournament.

With several key players finding form and confidence at the right time, France will travel to the World Cup believing they have the quality needed to challenge for another global title.