France produced another commanding display to defeat Sweden 3-0 and secure a place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
Kylian Mbappé struck twice, and Bradley Barcola also got on the scoresheet as Didier Deschamps’ side maintained their perfect record in the competition.
The latest victory saw France become the first team in FIFA World Cup history to score three or more goals in five successive matches. Their attacking consistency underlined why they remain among the favourites to lift the trophy.
Mbappé broke the deadlock with a brilliant solo effort, weaving through the Swedish defence before finishing confidently. His second goal of the night lifted his World Cup tally to 18, moving him clear of Miroslav Klose into sole possession of second place on the tournament’s all-time scoring list.
The French captain now trails only Lionel Messi by one goal and has also reached 10 goals in World Cup knockout matches.
Michael Olise played a decisive role in France’s second-half dominance by creating both remaining goals. He first delivered a perfectly timed through ball for Bradley Barcola, who finished emphatically, before setting up Mbappé with another incisive pass that the striker converted with ease.
After the match, Didier Deschamps expressed pride in his team’s achievement and praised their composure despite not converting more chances before half-time.
France has now qualified for the World Cup Round of 16 for the seventh time and has reached the knockout stage in four consecutive editions.
Les Bleus will face Paraguay in Philadelphia on 5 July, with Deschamps describing their next opponents as a determined and talented side capable of posing a serious challenge.
Also Read: Erling Haaland’s Late Goal Guides Norway To Maiden FIFA World Cup Round Of 16 Berth
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