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France Cruise Past Sweden as Mbappe Makes History

By Editorial Team 👁 21
France Cruise Past Sweden as Mbappe Makes History

Kylian Mbappe scored twice to become the outright second-highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history as France defeated Sweden 3-0 at New York New Jersey Stadium to secure a place in the Round of 16 of FIFA World Cup 2026.

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The France captain took his World Cup tally to 18 goals, moving two clear of Miroslav Klose and just one behind all-time leader Lionel Messi. Bradley Barcola added the third goal as Les Bleus continued their perfect campaign in the tournament.

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France dominated proceedings from the opening whistle, producing an attacking masterclass with 15 first-half attempts on goal. Mbappe had an early strike ruled out for offside and also hit the woodwork, while Michael Olise came close with a spectacular overhead effort that struck the crossbar.

The breakthrough arrived just before half-time when Mbappe collected a short corner, drove into the penalty area and fired an unstoppable shot into the far corner.

France maintained complete control after the interval. Olise provided a superb assist for Bradley Barcola, who finished confidently from inside the box to double the advantage. Swedish goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom produced several excellent saves to prevent an even heavier defeat.

Mbappe completed his brace in the 74th minute after another outstanding assist from Olise, calmly finishing to register his sixth goal of the 2026 tournament and 18th overall in FIFA World Cup history.

France will now face Paraguay in the Round of 16 at Philadelphia Stadium on 4 July, with Mbappe aiming to continue his remarkable scoring run.

Player of the Match: Kylian Mbappe (France)


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