France defeats Sweden 3-0 in World Cup, advances to last 16

By Rohan Gupta — 30 June 2026 — 3 min read

France secures dominant victory

France delivered a commanding performance in the World Cup round of 32, defeating Sweden 3-0. The match, held at the New York-New Jersey stadium, saw Kylian Mbappé score twice, bringing his tournament total to six goals, level with Lionel Messi in the golden boot race. This victory ensures France’s progression to the last 16, where they are set to face Paraguay.

The French side maintained a perfect record of four wins from four matches in the tournament. Their attacking play and goal quality were notable throughout the game. Michael Olise was a key figure, contributing two assists and showcasing a strong performance that left a significant impression on the match.

First half pressure leads to breakthrough

The first half presented an interesting contest, with Sweden demonstrating a clear gameplan and posing a threat on the counterattack. Players like Anthony Elanga and Viktor Gyökeres aimed to link up with Alexander Isak, who had two early shots on goal within the first 25 minutes. However, these efforts were contained by the defensive efforts of Dayot Upamecano and William Saliba, preventing them from troubling goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

France initially faced challenges in breaking down Sweden’s compact and resilient defence. Despite numerous deft approach plays, they struggled to create clear openings, leading Mbappé to attempt long-range shots out of frustration. The turning point arrived around the half-hour mark, following a forceful drive from Adrian Rabiot that Swedish goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterström managed to turn around the post.

This moment ignited a period of intense French pressure, marked by a succession of opportunities. Mbappé hit the post from six yards out, and Olise’s scissor kick also struck Zetterström’s right post, with Ousmane Dembelé‘s follow-up going over the bar. Olise then forced a sprawling save from Zetterström with a shot from 20 yards, leading to a corner.

The opening goal came just before half-time from the resulting corner. Dembelé played it short to Olise, who returned the pass. Dembelé then quickly passed to Mbappé inside the box on the right side. Despite the tight angle and numerous defenders, Mbappé skillfully bent a shot past Zetterström, giving France the lead.

Second half dominance and further goals

France extended their lead eight minutes into the second half. Following a Swedish turnover, Aurelién Tchouaméni seized possession and passed to Olise. Olise then delivered a precise pass between the Swedish centre-half and full-back, perfectly weighted for Bradley Barcola, who advanced into the box and powerfully struck the ball into the net.

Olise continued to be a central figure in the second half, actively seeking the ball across the forward line, dropping deep, and making runs. He forced another save from Zetterström with a shot from over 20 yards. His impressive play also included a mesmerising passing triangle with Rabiot and Jules Koundé at the halfway line, demonstrating intricate ball control and varied passing techniques.

With 15 minutes remaining, Olise secured his second assist of the game, setting up Mbappé for his second goal. This involved another deft pass from Olise and a well-timed run from Mbappé, who curled the ball into the far side of the goal, sealing France’s convincing 3-0 victory.

Mbappé’s two goals in this match brought his total World Cup goals to 18, placing him just one goal behind Messi’s overall record of 19. The 27-year-old captain celebrated his first goal by embracing coach Didier Deschamps, who is set to step down at the end of the competition after 14 years in charge. France will now prepare to face Paraguay in the last 16 on Saturday in Philadelphia, a repeat of their 1998 World Cup encounter.

Source: theguardian.com

Rohan Gupta

Sports Reporter