France will be favourites when they face Sweden in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32, with Didier Deschamps’ side aiming to continue their strong run in the tournament. Powered by one of the most dangerous attacks in the competition, Les Bleus will look to book a place in the next stage.
France have been in excellent form throughout the group stage. Kylian Mbappe has scored four goals so far, while Ousmane Dembele grabbed a hat-trick against Norway. Michael Olise has also played a key role with his creativity and pace, making France one of the highest-scoring teams in the tournament.
Sweden hope attacking duo can deliver
Sweden will rely on their attacking stars Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres to challenge the French defence. Both forwards have shown their quality at club level and will be expected to lead the team’s push for an upset.
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Anthony Elanga is another important player for Sweden, with his speed and direct running capable of causing problems on the counter-attack.
🇫🇷 Aurelien Tchouameni (26, DM) vs Sweden
30.06.26 (90 min)#rmcf #mufc pic.twitter.com/zDuRcsfw6j— Chesterman United (@chestermanutd3) July 2, 2026
However, Sweden will need a disciplined defensive display to contain France’s dangerous frontline.
France remain focused despite favourites tag
France coach Didier Deschamps has urged his players to stay focused, reminding them that knockout matches leave no room for mistakes.
Didier Deschamps bows to Kylian Mbappé as the forward is substituted off against Sweden. 🙇🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/iQGxmFxLgN— Seputar Real Madrid (@SeputarMadrid) July 1, 2026
He said Sweden would fight for every ball and warned that his team cannot afford to underestimate their opponents despite entering the match as favourites.
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France have looked balanced in all areas of the pitch, combining a solid defence with an attack that has scored goals consistently. Their experience in major tournaments also gives them an advantage heading into the contest.
The winner of the match will advance to the Round of 16, where Paraguay await after eliminating Germany on penalties.
While France are expected to progress, Sweden will hope a determined performance and clinical finishing can help them produce one of the biggest surprises of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
