Stars Still in Top Form: Mbappé Leads France into Round of 16

France convincingly wins the Round of 32 match against Sweden with a score of 3-0.

However, the first chance of the match belonged to Sweden: Viktor Gyökeres held the ball on the wing and laid it off for Alexander Isak. His shot from about 16 meters, however, landed safely in the arms of Mike Maignan.

Subsequently, France increasingly took control. Sweden defended deep, but as the match progressed, "Les Bleus" found increasingly better solutions against the compact defensive unit.

Initially, Bradley Barcola narrowly missed after a strong solo effort, and shortly after, goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterström made a strong save against Adrien Rabiot.

France Hits the Woodwork Twice

Kylian Mbappé had the biggest opportunity in the 32nd minute. After a beautiful combination in the penalty area, Jules Koundé laid the ball off to the far post, but Mbappé only hit the woodwork.

Just three minutes later, Sweden trembled again. Bayern player Olise attempted a spectacular bicycle kick at the edge of the penalty area, but this effort also only hit the post.

In the 45th minute, the long-overdue opening goal finally came: Mbappé relieved the French and immediately dedicated his goal to coach Didier Deschamps, who recently had to cope with the death of his mother.

Barcola Extends the Lead

After the break, the French seamlessly continued their strong first-half performance and were rewarded early with a second goal.

Michael Olise initiated the attack with a perfectly timed through ball. Bradley Barcola remained ice-cold in the penalty area and confidently slotted home for the 2-0.

However, Olise himself couldn't find a goal. First, the Bayern player narrowly missed the target with a spectacular curling shot (61st minute), and shortly after, his shot in the penalty area was crucially blocked at the last second.

Kylian Mbappé finally did better: After a dream pass from Olise, the superstar was ruthless in front of goal and scored his second goal, effectively sealing the 3-0 victory. For Olise, it was already his fifth assist at this World Cup.

France comfortably held on to the 3-0 lead. In the Round of 16, they now await Paraguay, who defeated Germany.