France secures dominant victory against Sweden
France delivered a commanding performance against Sweden in the World Cup round of 32, securing a 3-0 victory. The match, held at the New York-New Jersey stadium, saw Kylian Mbappé score two goals, bringing his total for the tournament to six, level with Lionel Messi in the golden boot race. This win maintains France’s perfect record of four wins from four matches in the tournament.
The French side demonstrated their attacking prowess throughout the game, with their quality of play and the beauty of their goals leaving a lasting impression. Michael Olise was a key figure, contributing two assists and delivering a performance that drew considerable attention. France’s dominance was evident in their control of possession and numerous shots on goal against a Swedish team that struggled to create opportunities.
Key moments and goal scorers
The first half presented an interesting contest, with Sweden attempting to compete and employing a clear game plan. They looked to utilize counterattacks, often involving Anthony Elanga or long balls to Viktor Gyökeres, who would then look for Alexander Isak. However, despite two early releases for Isak within the first 25 minutes, his efforts were contained by Dayot Upamecano and William Saliba, posing no threat to goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
France initially faced a compact and resilient Swedish defense. Despite numerous deft approaches, they struggled to break through, 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 succession of French opportunities.
Mbappé had a shot go over and another hit the post from close range. Olise then executed a perfect scissor kick that also struck Zetterström’s right post, with Ousmane Dembelé‘s follow-up going over the bar. Olise later had a shot from 20 yards out saved for a corner. The opening goal came from this corner, taken short by Dembelé to Olise, who returned the pass. Dembelé then quickly played it to Mbappé just inside the box on the right side. Despite a difficult angle and numerous defenders, Mbappé skillfully bent a shot past Zetterström, breaking the deadlock just before half-time.
The second goal for France came eight minutes into the second half. After Sweden briefly gained possession, Aurelién Tchouaméni seized the ball and passed it to Olise. Olise then delivered a precise pass between the Swedish center-half and full-back, perfectly weighted for Bradley Barcola, who advanced into the box and powerfully struck the ball into the net. This goal further solidified France’s lead.
Olise continued his influential performance, drifting across the forward line, dropping deep, and making runs, constantly seeking the ball to create danger. Around the hour mark, he forced a sprawling save from Zetterström with another shot from outside the box. His passing ability was also on display, notably in a mesmerizing passing triangle with Rabiot and Jules Koundé at the halfway line, showcasing intricate short passes.
Mbappé secured his second goal of the match, and France’s third, with 15 minutes remaining. Olise provided another exquisite pass, setting up Mbappé for a perfectly timed run and a repeat finish, curling the ball into the far side of the goal. This goal sealed a convincing victory for France.
Looking ahead to the last 16
With this victory, France has advanced to the last 16 of the World Cup. They are set to face Paraguay in their next match, which will be played on Saturday in Philadelphia. This will be a repeat of their 1998 World Cup last-16 encounter, which France won with a golden goal in extra time.
Didier Deschamps, who captained France to their 1998 World Cup victory and coached them to glory in 2018, is set to step down at the end of this competition after 14 successful years in charge. This strong performance ensures his tenure continues beyond the round of 32. Mbappé’s two goals in this match bring his total World Cup goals to 18, placing him just one behind Messi’s overall record of 19.
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Source: theguardian.com
