Doha: France advanced to the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden in their Round of 32 clash at New York/New Jersey Stadium. According to Qatar News Agency, Captain Kylian Mbappe inspired France's comfortable victory, opening the scoring in the 44th minute with a fine solo effort before Bradley Barcola doubled the lead eight minutes into the second half. Mbappe completed his brace in the 73rd minute to seal France's place in the Round of 16. The France captain took his tournament tally to six goals, drawing level with Lionel Messi at the top of the scoring charts. His overall World Cup tally also rose to 18 goals, leaving him one goal behind Messi's career total. France dominated throughout and rarely looked troubled as they eased into the next round. They will face surprise package Paraguay in Sunday's Round of 16 after the South Americans stunned Germany in a penalty shootout in the previous round.
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