World Cup
France’s relentless attack secures a 3‑0 win over Sweden
In East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, France defeated Sweden 3‑0 in the World Cup round of 32, with Kylian Mbappé scoring a brace and Michael Olise providing two assists, including a near‑goal that struck the post in the first half.
France pressed from the opening whistle, creating numerous chances against Sweden. Michael Olise, operating from midfield, delivered a perfectly weighted pass that forced an off‑side call on Mbappé’s early effort and later saw his shot hit the post. Olise later provided the assist for Bradley Barcola’s goal, while Mbappé’s brace would eventually seal the win.
Early in the second half Mbappé doubled his tally, scoring just before halftime to put France firmly in control. Minutes later Olise’s second assist set up Barcola for the third goal, completing a 3‑0 lead. The French attack continued to dominate, leaving Sweden with few opportunities as the match progressed.
Mbappé's double steers France past Sweden, sets Paraguay clash
The referee blew the final whistle to confirm France’s 3‑0 victory, extending their unbeaten run to four wins from four games. France have outscored opponents 13‑2 and have not trailed at any point in the tournament so far. Coach Didier Deschamps’ side now prepares for a round‑of‑16 clash with Paraguay, maintaining their status as pre‑tournament favourites. In Dallas, Erling Haaland broke his quiet spell by scoring with four minutes left to give Norway a 2‑1 win over Ivory Coast. Antonio Nusa had opened the scoring in the 39th minute with a curler from Martin Ødegaard’s left‑side pass that beat goalkeeper Yahia Fofana. Haaland’s strike, fed by Patrick Berg under pressure from three Ivorian defenders, marked his 60th international goal and secured Norway’s first ever World Cup knockout victory.Mbappé’s record‑breaking night propels France toward a third final
Mbappé’s sixth tournament goal ties him with Lionel Messi for the Golden Boot race, while Haaland sits on five. Michael Olise is closing in on Pelé’s World Cup record for most assists in a single tournament. Canadian soccer veteran John Molinaro, a 27‑year veteran journalist, continues to cover the tournament for outlets such as Sportsnet and CBC Sports.