Today’s matchup between France and Sweden was the first of six Round of 32 matchups that did not go to the final whistle. With brilliance once again from their front line, France comfortably cruised past Sweden.
While France dominated possession and chances throughout the first half, it took until the 45th minute for Mbappe to break the deadlock. From a short corner, Olise, Dembele, and Mbappe all combined, leading to the latter scoring with a well-hit shot across the net. Dembele added to his goal and assist tally, with 6 G/A for the winger this World Cup.
Bradley Barcola added to the scoreline for France just eight minutes into the second half. A loose pass in midfield is intercepted by Tchouameni, who quickly finds Olise. He expertly plays a through ball, nutmegging a Swedish defender to find Barcola. The PSG winger takes a touch to compose himself before firing his shot past Zetterström.
Michael Olise was once again at the center of action, as he threaded a wonderful pass in behind to find Kylian Mbappe. The French star stayed onside and once again found the far corner.
With this goal in the 74th minute, Kylian Mbappe tied Lionel Messi in the Golden Boot race with six goals. The Real Madrid star is now the outright second all-time top scorer (18), just one behind Lionel Messi.
Next up for France is a Round of 16 matchup vs. Paraguay on July 4 in Philadelphia. Following a big upset from Paraguay against Germany, it will be very important for France to not underestimate their opponent at this stage of the tournament.
