Kylian Mbappe wrote another chapter in his remarkable career after becoming the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup knockout history, scoring twice in France’s comfortable 3-0 victory over Sweden on Tuesday.
The French Captain’s brace took his tally to 10 goals in World Cup knockout matches, setting a new record and further cementing his status as one of football’s greatest big-game players. The goals also moved Mbappe level with Argentina Captain Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with both players now on six goals.
France, playing in difficult conditions due to the intense heat in New Jersey, dominated the contest from the opening whistle and created several chances before finally breaking Sweden’s resistance.
Mbappe appeared to have given Les Bleus the lead in the 20th minute, but his effort was ruled out for offside. Moments later, the Real Madrid forward struck the post after being set up by Jules Kounde.
France continued to pile on the pressure as Michael Olise also hit the woodwork with an audacious overhead effort, while Ousmane Dembele failed to convert the rebound.
Sweden goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom produced a number of impressive saves to keep his side in the contest, but he could do nothing to stop Mbappe from making history just before half-time.
Dembele played a superb through ball into the path of the French star, who used a clever stepover to beat his marker before calmly placing his shot into the far corner to become the leading scorer in World Cup knockout history.
Sweden had a chance to equalise immediately after the restart, but Elliot Stroud fired over from close range when presented with a clear opportunity.
France doubled their advantage in the 53rd minute when Bradley Barcola collected a fine pass from Olise and drilled a powerful shot into the near corner.
Mbappe then completed his outstanding performance in the 74th minute. Olise again provided the assist, and the France Captain produced a trademark curling finish beyond Widell Zetterstrom to seal victory.
The win sends France into the last 16, where they will face Paraguay, who stunned Germany in a penalty shootout.
While France’s progress will please manager Didier Deschamps, the night belonged to Mbappe. With 10 goals in World Cup knockout football, the 27-year-old has set a new benchmark on the biggest stage in international football.
