Mbappé's double sends France past Sweden into World Cup round of 16
France earned a dominant 3-0 victory over Sweden in the round of 32 on Tuesday, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice to secure their place in the last 16.
France delivered a commanding performance against Sweden at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, winning 3-0 in the World Cup round of 32. Kylian Mbappé was the star with two goals, while Michael Olise contributed two assists.
The opening goal came just before halftime. Olise set up Mbappé, who finished from close range. France had earlier hit the woodwork twice, once through Mbappé and once through Olise. After the break, France continued to dominate. In the 53rd minute, Olise assisted Bradley Barcola for the second goal. Mbappé completed his brace in the 74th minute, again assisted by Olise, curling the ball into the net.
Mbappé now has 18 World Cup goals, just one behind Lionel Messi's record of 19. In the race for the Golden Boot, Mbappé is tied with Messi at six goals each.
France coach Didier Deschamps, who will step down after the tournament, missed the final group-stage match to attend his mother's funeral. He captained France to World Cup glory in 1998 and coached them to victory in 2018.
Sweden, despite having Premier League forwards Viktor Gyökeres, Alexander Isak, and Anthony Elanga, struggled to retain possession and create chances. They reached the World Cup through the play-offs.
France will face Paraguay in the round of 16 on Saturday in Philadelphia, a repeat of their 1998 last-16 match, which France won 1-0.
