Top News

France head coach Didier Deschamps described Kylian Mbappe as an “example” after the forward struck twice to help France secure a place in the round of 16 at the World Cup.

Mbappe’s double, along with a goal from Bradley Barcola, powered France to a convincing 3-0 victory over Sweden in the round of 32.

The French captain’s brace saw him set a new record for the most goals scored in World Cup knockout matches, leaving him just one goal behind Lionel Messi in the all-time World Cup scoring charts.

The 27-year-old immediately ran towards Deschamps after scoring the opening goal to celebrate with his manager, who had recently lost his mother.

“Yes, obviously on a personal level, Kylian’s gesture touched me deeply,” Deschamps said.

“He is our captain, and I don’t say this merely to praise him, because he has been exemplary since the very first day. The team stayed united and did what was necessary when I was absent, and honestly, it was better for both them and me that I was not there at that time.

“But once I returned, they knew I was fully with them, and that is very important. The mindset and spirit of a team may not win matches on their own, but I know from experience that a poor spirit can certainly lose them.

“Of course, I understand that some players may feel disappointed if they don’t get enough playing time, or none at all. There is always frustration, but the strength of the collective must come first. And Kylian, as captain, is the perfect example of that.”