Michael Olise Scores Hat-Trick as France Defeat Northern Ireland 3-1

France concluded their pre-World Cup friendlies with a 3-1 victory against Northern Ireland, highlighted by Michael Olise's hat-trick. The Bayern Munich player was influential throughout the match, delivering a performance worthy of his three goals as Les Bleus controlled the game without exerting maximum effort.

Despite a challenging first 40 minutes where Northern Ireland posed difficulties, France fielded a near full-strength squad featuring the Mbappe-Doue-Dembele-Olise attacking line. Northern Ireland had opportunities to score, including a notable chance in the 40th minute, but the hosts eventually took control.

Olise opened the scoring just before halftime, capitalizing on a deflected ball to finish from close range. Shortly after the break, he doubled his tally by reacting quickly to a loose ball and shooting past the goalkeeper. Northern Ireland responded with a goal when Shea Charles bypassed Dayot Upamecano and assisted Patrick Kelly for a tap-in.

However, France's superiority was evident as Olise secured his third goal, effectively sealing the match. Northern Ireland failed to create further significant chances, and despite conceding once, the French side demonstrated convincing form that should satisfy manager Didier Deschamps.

Player Ratings from Decathlon Arena

Goalkeeper and Defence

Mike Maignan received a 6/10 rating, being unable to prevent the goal but otherwise performing solidly. Theo Hernandez earned a 5/10, contributing two chances but showing some defensive vulnerability. William Saliba was rated 6/10 for a tidy 45-minute return, with his playing time still being managed after a demanding season at Arsenal.

Dayot Upamecano played the full 90 minutes, registering the most touches and earning a 7/10 despite some misfortune on the conceded goal. Jules Kounde was solid defensively during his hour on the pitch, receiving a 6/10, though his ball distribution was limited.

Midfield and Attack

Adrien Rabiot was given a 6/10 for an unspectacular but workmanlike performance in central midfield. Aurélien Tchouaméni impressed with an 8/10 rating, leading the team in defensive actions and chance creation, showing better form for the national team than his club. Michael Olise stood out with a 9/10, operating across the attacking midfield and scoring three goals, potentially proving more decisive than Mbappe.

Ousmane Dembele received a 6/10, struggling to create and focusing more on defensive work, while Kylian Mbappe earned a 7/10 for his positioning, dribbling, and goal attempts despite not scoring. Desire Doue was rated 6/10 after creating three chances but not overcoming defenders decisively.

Substitutes and Manager

Malo Gusto's 7/10 rating reflected a more complete performance than in previous matches, including an assist. Max Lacroix contributed a tidy 45 minutes for a 6/10, and Lucas Digne was rated 6/10 for an important full-back role. Rayan Cherki showed some positive moments with a 6/10, though his partnership with Olise raised questions. Kouadio Kone completed all his passes and earned a 5/10, while Maghnes Akliouche did not have enough time to impact the game.

N'Golo Kante was given a 5/10 rating. Manager Didier Deschamps received a 7/10, with little to criticize aside from the conceded goal, as his team appears well-prepared for the upcoming World Cup tournament.