Kylian Mbappe continued his sensational form by scoring twice as France secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Sweden on Tuesday, booking their place in the FIFA World Cup last 16. Earlier in the day, Erling Haaland struck a dramatic late winner to send Norway into the knockout stage with a historic 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast.
Mbappe's brace at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey increased his tournament tally to six goals, drawing level with Lionel Messi as the competition's joint-leading scorer. The French captain also reached an astonishing career total of 18 World Cup goals in just 18 appearances, leaving him only one goal behind Messi's all-time World Cup record of 19.
Bradley Barcola added France's second goal as Didier Deschamps' side produced another dominant attacking display, further strengthening their status as one of the tournament favourites.
Sweden, managed by Graham Potter, frustrated France for much of the opening half after Potter had warned his players would need the performance of their lives to contain the French attack. However, Mbappe finally broke the deadlock just before halftime, creating space for himself before firing home.
Barcola doubled France's advantage in the 53rd minute, and Mbappe wrapped up the victory with his second goal in the 74th minute. France will now face Paraguay in the last 16 in Philadelphia on Saturday.
"I know who I am and what I've got to do, but it's not just me. I think the team is perfectly aware of what we have to do here," Mbappe told French broadcaster beIN Sports.
Haaland Delivers Historic Victory for Norway
Earlier on Tuesday, Haaland once again proved decisive by scoring an 86th-minute winner as Norway edged Ivory Coast 2-1 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Antonio Nusa gave Norway the lead before Amad Diallo equalized for Ivory Coast. With extra time looming, Haaland calmly converted the decisive goal to secure Norway's first-ever World Cup knockout-stage victory.
Having previously lost their only two knockout appearances in 1938 and 1998, the Norwegians will now face Brazil on Sunday for a place in the quarter-finals.
Haaland has now scored five goals in the tournament, moving within one goal of joint leaders Messi and Mbappe.
Ivory Coast nearly forced extra time deep into stoppage time when Diallo curled a free-kick toward the top corner, but Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland produced a superb save to preserve the lead.
The victory also justified Norway coach Stale Solbakken's controversial decision to rest Haaland and field a largely second-string lineup during their final group-stage match, a 4-1 defeat to France.
After the match, Solbakken described Haaland as "the greatest goalscorer in the world."
"To score five goals in the World Cup in three games, for a little country like Norway... I wouldn't swap him for anyone," Solbakken said.
"Because he's the greatest goalscorer in the world of football today."
Mexico Aim to Reach the Knockout Stage
Later on Tuesday, Mexico will attempt to secure a place in the last 16 against Ecuador. A victory would allow the hosts to remain in Mexico City for a Round of 16 clash against the winner of Wednesday's match between England and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Meanwhile, the Ecuador Football Federation (FEF) lodged an official complaint with World Cup organizers after Mexican fans reportedly gathered outside Ecuador's team hotel late Monday night in an apparent attempt to disturb the players' sleep.
According to footage published by local newspaper Reforma, supporters arrived outside the hotel in a convoy of cars and motorcycles.
In an official statement posted on social media, the FEF condemned the incident, saying: "This behavior is far removed from the principles of fair play, equity, and unity that a football World Cup should represent."
Tags : FIFA World Cup 2026 France
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শুক্রবার, ০৩ জুলাই ২০২৬
Published : ০১ জুলাই ২০২৬
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