Mbappe Leads France Into World Cup Last 16 as Norway and Mexico Advance

Posted : 01 July 2026

Kylian Mbappé continued his outstanding FIFA World Cup campaign with two goals as France defeated Sweden 3-0 on Tuesday to book a place in the last 16. The victory at MetLife Stadium also saw Les Bleus strengthen their credentials as one of the tournament favourites.

After a disciplined Swedish display frustrated France for much of the first half, Mbappé finally broke the deadlock just before the interval with a clinical finish. Bradley Barcola doubled France's advantage early in the second half before Mbappé completed his brace in the 74th minute, sealing a comfortable victory.

The French captain has now scored six goals in the tournament, moving level with Lionel Messi at the top of the scoring charts. Mbappé also took his overall World Cup tally to 18 goals in just 18 appearances, leaving him only one goal behind Messi's all-time tournament record of 19.

France will now face Paraguay national football team in the last 16, with Mbappé insisting that while he understands his responsibility, success depends on the collective strength of the squad rather than individual performances.

Earlier in the day, Erling Haaland inspired Norway to their first-ever World Cup knockout victory with a dramatic 2-1 win over Ivory Coast. After Antonio Nusa gave Norway the lead and Amad Diallo equalised, Haaland struck the decisive goal in the 86th minute to send his side into the next round.

Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland preserved the victory with a crucial late save, denying Diallo from a dangerous free-kick in stoppage time. Head coach Ståle Solbakken praised Haaland after the match, describing him as the world's finest goalscorer following his fifth goal of the tournament.

Meanwhile, co-hosts Mexico national football team advanced with a convincing 2-0 victory over Ecuador at the Estadio Azteca despite kick-off being delayed by severe weather. Julián Quiñones opened the scoring before Raúl Jiménez added a second as Mexico comfortably secured progression.

Mexico will return to the Azteca for a last-16 meeting against either DR Congo or England. Coach Javier Aguirre credited the squad's unity for their success, describing the players as a close-knit family fully committed to their World Cup ambitions.

Away from the action on the pitch, Ronald Koeman announced his resignation as Netherlands head coach following his team's penalty shootout elimination against Morocco. Koeman said the disappointment of missing the chance to make history ultimately rested on his shoulders as manager.

Mbappe Leads France Into World Cup Last 16 as Norway and Mexico Advance

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