Algerian Radio
The French national team secured its place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, currently held across the United States, Canada, and Mexique, following a dominant 3-0 victory against Suède at the New York/New Jersey Stadium during the Round of 32.
Kylian Mbappé led his side to victory, opening the scoring in the 44th minute after a brilliant solo effort. Bradley Barcola doubled the French lead in the 53rd minute, before Kylian Mbappé returned to net his second of the night and France's third in the 73rd minute, sealing the qualification.
With this brace, Kylian Mbappé brings his tournament tally to 6 goals, drawing level with Lionel Messi at the top of the scorers' chart. Furthermore, he raised his total career World Cup goals to 18, trailing Lionel Messi by just one goal.
Les Bleus dictated the tempo throughout the match and comfortably secured the win. They are now set to face Paraguay next Sunday in the Round of 16. Paraguay is considered the surprise of the tournament after eliminating Allemagne on penalties.
Meanwhile, Mexique also booked its ticket to the Round of 16 after defeating Équateur 2-0 on Wednesday at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Julián Quiñones opened the scoring for the hosts in the 22nd minute, and Raúl Jiménez doubled the lead in the 31st minute, allowing the home side to secure the result early thanks to their offensive superiority in the first half.
Équateur attempted a comeback in the second half, but the defensive solidity of Mexique and the stellar performance of goalkeeper Raúl Rangel prevented them from narrowing the gap. On the other hand, the Mexican side missed several opportunities to extend their lead, most notably a header by César Montes that was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez.
In stoppage time, Équateur was reduced to ten men after the dismissal of defender Piero Hincapié. Mexique held onto its lead until the final whistle, confirming its advancement to the Round of 16, while Équateur exited the competition. Mexique is scheduled to face the winner of the Angleterre vs. RD Congo match next Monday.
