World Cup 2026: Mbappé's brace sends France into round of 16 as Les Bleus demolish Sweden

World Cup 2026: Mbappé's brace sends France into round of 16 as Les Bleus demolish Sweden France secured their passage to the round of 16 with a commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden at MetLife Stadium, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice to extend his World Cup legacy. The Bleus' clinical finishing and tactical superiority proved too much for the Scandinavians as France maintained their perfect tournament record and advanced with authority. France defeated Sweden 3-0 in a dominant round of 32 performance on Tuesday evening, with Kylian Mbappé's brace and Michael Olise's assist setting the tone for a comprehensive victory. The French superstar struck twice, first from close range after Olise's through ball, as Les Bleus overwhelmed their opponents with superior skill, movement, and execution. Bradley Barcola's earlier opener had already put France in control, and from that moment Didier Deschamps' side never looked in danger. Sweden, despite moments of resilience and a few threatening counter-attacks, were unable to penetrate a well-organised French defence or trouble goalkeeper Mike Maignan. Mbappé's two-goal haul moved him to 18 World Cup goals in 18 matches, just one goal behind Messi's all-time record. The French forward was denied on several occasions in the first half before finally breaking through after the interval, showcasing the predatory instinct that defines him as one of world football's elite strikers. France's finishing and controlled dominance sends them into the round of 16 as one of the tournament's most impressive sides, where they will take on Paraguay. (FRANCE 24 with AFP)