{"id":19478,"date":"2026-07-01T08:35:57","date_gmt":"2026-07-01T02:50:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/eng.dragonmedia.com.np\/?p=19478"},"modified":"2026-07-01T08:35:57","modified_gmt":"2026-07-01T02:50:57","slug":"mbappe-brace-sends-france-into-last-16","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/eng.dragonmedia.com.np\/?p=19478","title":{"rendered":"Mbappe Brace Sends France Into Last 16<\/strong>"},"content":{"rendered":"

Dragon Media Correspondent
\nKathmandu<\/strong><\/p>\n

France have advanced to the last 16 of the FIFA World Cup after a dominant performance inspired by Kylian Mbappe.<\/p>\n

In a one-sided Round of 32 match played at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, the United States, France defeated Sweden 3-0.<\/p>\n

Mbappe scored twice for France, while Bradley Barcola added another goal. Mbappe opened the scoring in the 45th minute to give France a 1-0 lead before half-time.<\/p>\n

France doubled their advantage early in the second half. Barcola scored in the 53rd minute to put the team in a comfortable 2-0 position.<\/p>\n

Mbappe then scored his second goal of the match in the 74th minute, sealing a commanding 3-0 victory for France.<\/p>\n

Sweden struggled to put sustained pressure on the French defence throughout the match. France controlled possession, maintained attacking rhythm and made effective use of their chances.<\/p>\n

With the win, France, considered one of the title contenders, have secured their place in the last 16. They will now face Paraguay for a place in the quarter-finals.<\/p>\n

In another Round of 32 match played on Tuesday, Norway also booked their place in the last 16 after defeating Ivory Coast 2-1. Erling Haaland scored the decisive goal for Norway in the 86th minute.<\/p>\n

Another match between Mexico and Ecuador is also scheduled as the knockout stage continues.<\/p>\n

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