World Cup group stage sees Germany, France and Norway target early qualification

Ahead of their Group E match against Ivory Coast, German analysts argue that losing the game could help Germany avoid a knockout‑round clash with tournament favourites France, improving their odds of progressing further.

In Group I, reigning champions France are looking to secure a place in the round of 16 by beating Iraq, while Norway aim to lock in early qualification after a 4‑1 opening‑match win over Iraq and a forthcoming game against Senegal. Both teams see a swift rise through the group as the safest route to the knockout stage.