France’s commanding performance
France delivered a commanding performance against Sweden in the World Cup round of 32, securing a 3-0 victory. The match, played in New York-New Jersey, saw Kylian Mbappé score twice, bringing his tournament goal tally to six, matching Lionel Messi in the Golden Boot race. Michael Olise contributed significantly with two assists, while Bradley Barcola also found the net for France.
The French side, considered favourites for the tournament, showcased their attacking prowess throughout the game. Despite facing warm temperatures, they quickly established control, with their offensive plays proving difficult for Sweden to contain. The victory sets up a last 16 tie for France against Paraguay.
First-half intensity and breakthrough
The initial stages of the match presented an interesting contest, with Sweden adopting a compact and brave defensive strategy. They also posed a threat on the counterattack, with players like Anthony Elanga and Viktor Gyökeres looking to link up with Alexander Isak. Isak had two early opportunities within the first 25 minutes, though neither effort troubled French goalkeeper Mike Maignan, thanks to the close marking by Dayot Upamecano and William Saliba.
France initially struggled to break down Sweden’s defence, with many deft approach plays failing to create clear openings. Mbappé resorted to long-range efforts, indicating some frustration. However, the intensity shifted around the half-hour mark, possibly after a forceful drive from Adrian Rabiot that Swedish goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterström managed to turn around the post.
Following this, France created a succession of opportunities. Mbappé had a shot go over and another hit the post. In the 35th minute, Olise’s scissor kick struck Zetterström’s right post, with Ousmane Dembelé‘s follow-up going over the bar. Olise then forced another save from Zetterström from approximately 20 yards out, leading to a corner.
The breakthrough came from this corner. Dembelé played it short to Olise, who returned the pass. Dembelé then quickly passed to Mbappé, positioned inside the box on the right, about six yards from goal. Despite the tight angle and numerous defenders, Mbappé skillfully shuffled to his right and bent a shot past Zetterström, giving France the lead just before half-time. Sweden had one more chance before the break, but Elliot Stroud blazed his follow-up over the bar after Elanga’s pass.
Second-half dominance and further goals
France extended their lead 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 perfectly weighted pass between a Swedish centre-half and full-back, allowing Barcola to stride into the box and score by smashing the ball into the roof of the net.
Olise continued to be a central figure in the second half, drifting across the forward line, dropping deep, and making runs beyond defenders. His efforts included another shot from over 20 yards that forced a sprawling save from Zetterström. A notable moment of intricate play involved a passing triangle between Olise, Rabiot, and Jules Koundé on the halfway line, showcasing France’s control and skill.
Mbappé secured his second goal of the match with 15 minutes remaining, following another precise pass from Olise. This goal, described as another piece of beautiful play, saw Mbappé curl the ball into the far side of the goal, completing France’s 3-0 victory. Sweden’s Gyökeres had a late opportunity for a consolation goal but was denied by Maignan. France will now face Paraguay in Philadelphia on Saturday, 4 July.
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Source: theguardian.com
Freya Donnelly is the Sports Reporter at News-UK, covering tennis, cricket and athletics with seven years of reporting experience. She reported on Team GB through an Olympic cycle. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from the University of Brighton and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Brighton, she plays club cricket in the summer. “Listening is the most underrated skill in sports reporting.”
