Kylian Mbappe scored twice as France cruised to a 3-0 victory over Sweden in the World Cup last 32 on Tuesday, securing their place in the last 16 with a commanding performance in New Jersey.
First half: Mbappe breaks the deadlock
France dominated possession from the outset, with Sweden struggling to contain the pace and creativity of the French attack. The breakthrough came in first-half stoppage time, when Mbappe latched onto a through ball and slotted home to make it 1-0 at the break.
Sweden had few chances in the opening period, with Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak isolated up front. The Swedish midfield, led by Lucas Bergvall, worked hard but failed to create clear openings against a well-organized French defense marshaled by Dayot Upamecano and William Saliba.
Second half: France turn on the style
France doubled their lead in the 53rd minute through Bradley Barcola. Michael Olise played a sublime pass through the legs of a Swedish defender, and Barcola took a superb touch before firing home. The goal effectively ended the contest, as Sweden struggled to respond.
"Christ alive, this France team is good," wrote Zafar Sobhan in a message to the Guardian.
Mbappe added his second and France's third in the 74th minute. Olise again provided the assist, playing an inch-perfect pass for Mbappe to latch onto and finish clinically into the corner. The goal moved Mbappe level with Lionel Messi at the top of the Golden Boot standings.
Impact and analysis
France's front four of Mbappe, Olise, Barcola, and Ousmane Dembele proved too much for Sweden. "The front four is far too good at the moment," noted the Guardian's Will Unwin. "They are a cut above anything else in the tournament."
Sweden manager Graham Potter made substitutions in the second half, bringing on Zeneli, Ali, Bygren, and Svanberg, but they could not change the game's flow. France introduced Desire Doue, Malo Gusto, Jean-Philippe Mateta, and Rayan Cherki from the bench, showcasing their depth.
"France now have a full reserve front line of Mateta, Cherki and Doue (with Barcola) on. They’re as good as any other country’s starters. Scary," wrote Zafar Sobhan.
France will now await their last 16 opponent, with many already tipping them as tournament favorites. Sweden, meanwhile, exit the World Cup after a valiant effort but ultimately outclassed by a superior French side.
