World Cup: Mbappe extends scoring streak as France, Norway, Mexico advance
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At a glance
- Kylian Mbappé scored two goals, extending his tournament tally to six, as France defeated Sweden 3-0 to advance to the World Cup last 16.
- Erling Haaland scored a late winner for Norway in their 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast, securing their first-ever World Cup knockout win.
- Mexico also advanced, beating Ecuador 2-0 to maintain their perfect World Cup knockout record at the Estadio Azteca.
Kylian Mbappé continued his sensational scoring streak, netting a brace to lead France to a dominant 3-0 victory over Sweden and secure their place in the World Cup's last 16. Mbappé now boasts six goals in the tournament, placing him joint top scorer alongside Lionel Messi.
The prolific French striker's latest performance further cemented his World Cup legacy, bringing his career total to 18 goals in 18 matches, inching closer to Messi's all-time record. Bradley Barcola added France's other goal, capping another impressive attacking display that underscores their status as title favorites. France will face Paraguay in their next knockout match.
I know who I am and what I’ve got to do, but it’s not just me, I think the team is perfectly aware of what we have to do here.
Earlier on Tuesday, Norway achieved their first-ever World Cup knockout win with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast, thanks to a late winner from star striker Erling Haaland. Haaland's 86th-minute strike sealed the win after Ivory Coast had equalized through Amad Diallo, who had canceled out Antonio Nusa's opener for Norway.
To score five goals in the World Cup in three games, for a little country like Norway… I wouldn’t swap him for anyone.
Norway, who had previously been eliminated in their opening knockout round appearances in 1938 and 1998, will now face Brazil. Haaland's five goals in the tournament have him trailing only Messi and Mbappé.
In the final match of the day, co-hosts Mexico extended their proud unbeaten record in World Cup knockout matches at the Estadio Azteca, defeating Ecuador 2-0. The victory ensures Mexico progresses, maintaining their strong performance on home soil.
Because he’s the greatest goalscorer in the world of football today.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.