France dispatched Sweden 3-0 in the World Cup round of 32, confirming Gary Neville's view that Les Bleus operate on a different plane. Mbappé struck twice, once before and once after Bradley Barcola’s goal, while Michael Olise added flair. The win, secured in New York‑New Jersey, pits France against Paraguay in the last‑16 in Philadelphia.

Neville praised the French attack, calling the quartet of Mbappé, Olise, Dembélé and Barcola a defender’s nightmare. He said their precision and devastation set a new standard, comparing Mbappé’s first‑half flair to Brazil’s Ronaldo. With the striker now level with Lionel Messi in the Golden Boot race, his World Cup standing has never been higher.

Neville concluded France’s display was the most emphatic of the tournament, eclipsing recent wins by Brazil, Germany and the Netherlands. He warned that any lapse could cost Les Bleus, but their current form leaves little doubt they are the favourites. A victory over Paraguay in Philadelphia would cement France’s dominance and reinforce Neville’s assessment.

Mbappé’s brace moves him level with Messi, intensifying the Golden Boot chase as the World Cup narrows. His pace and finishing will be pivotal in the knockout rounds, and supporters expect him to lead France to the final. Sustaining this form could cement his status among the tournament’s greats.