EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Kylian Mbappé scored twice as France eased past Sweden 3-0 on Tuesday to reach the World Cup quarterfinals, moving within one goal of Lionel Messi’s all-time tournament scoring record.
The France captain took his World Cup tally to 18 career goals, one behind Messi’s record 19, while also drawing level with the Argentina star on six goals in the race for the 2026 Golden Boot.
France will face Paraguay in the quarterfinals after the South Americans stunned Germany on penalties.
Mbappé opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time with a moment of individual brilliance, combining with Ousmane Dembélé before cutting inside Viktor Gyökeres and firing past goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterström.
“It goes without saying that Mbappé is an absolute top, top player,” Sweden coach Graham Potter said. “His goal was a fine example of the speed, the change of direction and the way he can get the shot off quickly. It’s an incredibly high level.”
The 27-year-old struck again in the 74th minute, finishing from close range after being set up by Michael Olise to register his 10th World Cup knockout-stage goal — extending his tournament record.
Mbappé celebrated his opening goal by running directly to coach Didier Deschamps, who returned to the touchline after missing France’s final group-stage match following the death of his mother.
“We know that the head coach had to face a really tough challenge,” Mbappé said. “It goes beyond football. He knows he will never be alone with us, and we will support him.”
Mbappé nearly scored earlier in the first half but saw his effort strike the post before eventually finding the net twice in another commanding display.
Substituted in the 85th minute to a standing ovation, Mbappé left the field with 18 goals in just 18 World Cup appearances, a remarkable strike rate that has brought him within touching distance of Messi’s all-time mark.
“I said I wanted to enjoy this World Cup to the fullest,” Mbappé said. “When I was younger, I was only focused on delivering performances. Now I believe I can do both, perform at the highest level and enjoy every moment.”
France continued to underline its status as one of the tournament favorites with another dominant performance as it marches into the last eight.
Source: Saudi Gazette