PARIS – Michael Olise scored a devastating hat-trick on Monday night as France secured a commanding 3-1 friendly victory over Northern Ireland at the Stade de France.
The Bayern Munich winger was the architect of Les Bleus’ dominance, netting three times to ensure Didier Deschamps’ side maintained their winning momentum against a resilient but outclassed Northern Irish outfit.
First-half breakthrough
France controlled the contest from the outset, with Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and Désiré Doué all contributing to a relentless attacking display. Despite a string of early chances, the hosts had to wait until the 43rd minute to break the deadlock. Olise reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the penalty area and fired home to give France a deserved half-time lead.
Quickfire double after restart
The French side resumed with renewed intensity and doubled their advantage just four minutes into the second half. Olise again proved lethal, finishing clinically from close range to make it 2-0.
Northern Ireland fight back
Despite sustained French pressure, Northern Ireland refused to capitulate. In the 64th minute, Patrick Kelly capitalised on a well-worked move orchestrated by Shea Charles, rifling a low shot into the corner to briefly revive his side’s hopes.
Hat-trick sealed in style
France, however, quickly reasserted control. With 15 minutes remaining, Olise completed his treble in spectacular fashion, cutting inside from the edge of the box before unleashing a strike that beat goalkeeper Pierce Charles via the post.
Dominant statistics
The final scoreline reflected France’s overwhelming superiority. The hosts registered 23 attempts on goal compared to Northern Ireland’s four and dominated possession for long periods.
Mbappé came close to adding his name to the scoresheet on several occasions but was denied by wayward finishing, a disallowed goal for offside, and resolute defending from the visitors. Northern Ireland goalkeeper Pierce Charles also produced a number of important saves to prevent the margin from becoming more emphatic.
The victory serves as a timely confidence boost for France ahead of their upcoming fixtures, while Northern Ireland will take heart from a spirited display against one of world football’s elite sides.
