Kylian Mbappe played a pivotal role as France secured a 3-0 victory over Sweden, advancing to the World Cup round of 16. The match, held at a yet unspecified venue, saw France break the deadlock just before halftime when Mbappe skillfully created space and scored. In the second half, France extended their lead through Barcola in the 53rd minute, before Mbappe sealed the win with a second goal in the 74th minute. With this result, France will face Paraguay in the round of 16 in Philadelphia on Sunday. Mbappe emphasized the collective effort of the team, stating that he understands his role but acknowledged the importance of the entire squad’s awareness and contribution.
Elsewhere, Norway claimed their first-ever World Cup knockout stage win with a 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Erling Haaland, currently in strong form with Manchester City, scored the decisive goal in the 86th minute, following an equalizer from Ivory Coast’s Amad Diallo, which cancelled out Antonio Nusa’s initial goal for Norway. This advancement marks a milestone for Norway, who had been eliminated in their previous two opening knockout matches in 1938 and 1998. Norway will now face Brazil in the last 16 on Monday, competing for a place in the quarterfinals. Haaland’s tally for the tournament rose to five goals, placing him just behind the joint top scorers Lionel Messi and Mbappe. Norway’s coach, Stale Solbakken, praised Haaland as the world’s greatest goalscorer, highlighting his significant achievements for a smaller footballing nation.
In a late match, co-host Mexico maintained their unbeaten World Cup record at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City with a 2-0 win over Ecuador, despite a one-hour delay caused by heavy rain and lightning. Julian Quinones opened the scoring for Mexico in the 22nd minute with a remarkable strike, followed by a goal from Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Raul Jimenez in the 31st minute. Ecuador struggled to mount a comeback throughout the remainder of the game. Mexico will return to Estadio Azteca for their round of 16 match on Monday against the winner of the last 32 fixture between DR Congo and England in Atlanta. Mexican coach Javier Aguirre described the team as a “true family,” praising their connection with fans and their unity throughout the tournament.
Off the pitch, the Netherlands announced a change in leadership as coach Ronald Koeman stepped down the day following the team's penalty shootout loss to Morocco in the round of 16. Koeman expressed his disappointment in failing to meet expectations, taking full responsibility as head coach for the team’s exit from the tournament.