IBNS-CMEDIA: French football icon Kylian Mbappé surpassed Miroslav Klose to become the highest-scoring European player in FIFA World Cup history with a brace that guided France into the Round of 16.
Mbappé has now scored 18 FIFA World Cup goals, moving two clear of Klose’s tally of 16.
The French superstar is now second on the tournament’s all-time scoring list, behind only Argentine legend Lionel Messi.
France 3-0 Sweden
France secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Sweden in New Jersey to book their place in the Round of 16.
After a closely fought opening half, Mbappé broke the deadlock just before the interval.
Bradley Barcola doubled France’s advantage early in the second half before Mbappé completed his brace in the 74th minute to put the result beyond doubt.
France’s pace on the counterattack and clinical finishing proved too much for Sweden, who struggled to create meaningful opportunities throughout the contest.
Didier Deschamps’ side will now face Paraguay in the Round of 16.
Norway 2-1 Ivory Coast
Norway advanced to the Round of 16 after defeating Ivory Coast 2-1 in a closely contested encounter.
Antonio Nusa handed Norway the lead in the first half before Amad Diallo restored parity for Ivory Coast with a superb strike in the 74th minute.
With the match seemingly heading towards extra time, Erling Haaland struck the decisive goal in the 86th minute.
The goal was Haaland’s 60th in international football, sealing Norway’s place in the next round.
Norway will now take on Brazil in the Round of 16.
