AfriPulse
July 1 (THEWILL) — Kylian Mbappé delivered another masterclass as France swept aside Sweden 3-0 on Tuesday to secure a place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will face Paraguay.
The French captain scored twice and Bradley Barcola added another as Les Bleus maintained their perfect record in the tournament with a commanding display that underlined their status as one of the favourites for the title.
France controlled proceedings from the opening whistle, dominating possession and creating a constant stream of opportunities. Sweden defended resolutely for much of the first half but finally conceded in stoppage time when Ousmane Dembélé’s pass released Mbappé, who beat his marker with quick footwork before calmly finishing to hand France a deserved lead.
The second half began in similar fashion, with Didier Deschamps’ side immediately extending their advantage. Just three minutes after the restart, Bradley Barcola finished off another flowing French attack to make it 2-0 and leave Sweden with a mountain to climb.
Mbappé completed the rout in the 74th minute, collecting the ball inside the area before finishing clinically for his second goal of the evening and sixth of the tournament, drawing level in the Golden Boot race.
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France completely overwhelmed Sweden, finishing with 25 shots, including 13 on target, while earning nine corners. Sweden struggled to impose themselves and managed only eight attempts, with just three testing the French goalkeeper.
The emphatic victory also extended France’s remarkable scoring run, making them the first nation to score at least three goals in five consecutive FIFA World Cup matches.
Les Bleus will now face Paraguay in the Round of 16 on July 4, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake as their quest for another world title gathers momentum.
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