Mbappé double helps France thrash Sweden to reach World Cup quarter-finals
France secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Sweden in the World Cup round of 16, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice to tie Lionel Messi at the top of the tournament's scoring charts.
One-sided affair from the start
France dominated Sweden from the opening whistle in New Jersey, creating numerous chances in the first half. Mbappé hit the post, and Michael Olisé struck the crossbar with a spectacular shot. Swedish goalkeeper Jakob Videll-Sätterström made several saves to keep the score level, but France's pressure eventually paid off.
Goals arrive before and after halftime
The breakthrough came in first-half stoppage time when Mbappé curled a brilliant shot into the far corner. He celebrated by embracing coach Didier Deschamps, who had rejoined the team after missing the final group match due to his mother's death. Early in the second half, Bradley Barcola doubled the lead after a clever assist from Olisé, and Mbappé added his second — and sixth of the tournament — by chipping the ball over the goalkeeper.
Historic achievements
Deschamps recorded his ninth win in World Cup knockout matches, making him the most successful coach in the competition's playoff history. Mbappé became the first player ever to score 10 goals in World Cup knockout stages. Overall, he has 18 goals and five assists in 18 World Cup appearances. With six goals, he shares the tournament lead with Lionel Messi. Olisé’s five assists make him the top assist provider.
Next up: Paraguay
France will face Paraguay in the quarter-finals in Philadelphia. Paraguay pulled off a surprise win over Germany in the previous round. Sweden's best chance came late, when Viktor Gyökeres shot straight at goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
