Kylian Mbappe edged closer to becoming the FIFA World Cup’s all-time leading scorer after netting twice in France’s commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden to secure a place in the Round of 16.
The France captain took his World Cup tally to 18 goals, moving clear of Miroslav Klose into second place on the all-time scoring list and leaving him just one goal behind Lionel Messi. He also extended his record for the most goals scored in World Cup knockout matches with 10.
Bradley Barcola was also on target as France maintained their perfect record at World Cup 2026 and booked a last-16 meeting with Paraguay.
France dominated from the opening whistle at New York New Jersey Stadium, producing wave after wave of attacks in an impressive first-half display.
Mbappe had an early effort ruled out for offside before striking the woodwork, while Michael Olise also came close with an acrobatic overhead kick that crashed against the frame of the goal.
After creating 15 attempts before the break, France finally found the breakthrough in first-half stoppage time. Mbappe collected a short corner on the left, drove into the penalty area and fired a powerful strike into the far corner.
France continued to dictate proceedings after the restart.
Olise turned provider in the 53rd minute, threading a precise pass for Barcola to finish confidently from inside the box and double Les Bleus’ advantage.
Sweden goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom prevented the scoreline from becoming even heavier with fine saves to deny Jules Kounde and Olise as France continued to create chances.
Mbappe completed his brace in the 74th minute, once again benefiting from Olise’s creativity before calmly sweeping home to put the result beyond doubt.
The victory extends France’s flawless start to the tournament and sends Didier Deschamps’ side into the Round of 16 brimming with confidence.
France will now face Paraguay on 4 July, with Mbappe having another opportunity to equal or surpass Messi’s World Cup scoring record as Les Bleus continue their pursuit of a third world title.
