France and Sweden lock horns tonight in one of the standout ties of the World Cup Round of 32, with a place in the last 16 awaiting the winner.
Both sides impressed during the group stage and arrive in confident mood, but only one can continue their journey towards the final.
Didier Deschamps’ side scored seven goals across three matches and once again demonstrated the attacking quality that makes them one of the favourites to lift the trophy.
Kylian Mbappe has looked sharp throughout the tournament, while the likes of Ousmane Dembele, Adrien Rabiot and Aurélien Tchouaméni have helped France dominate games in midfield.
For Sweden, meanwhile, Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres have formed one of the tournament’s most dangerous strike partnerships.
This has all the ingredients of a high-quality knockout encounter.
Both Teams To Score
Both teams have shown throughout the tournament that they are capable of creating chances against strong opposition.
France have scored in all three of their group matches and boast world-class attacking talent across the pitch. However, they also conceded against both Senegal and Norway, suggesting opportunities may exist for Sweden.
The Scandinavians certainly have the players to take advantage.
Isak and Gyokeres have both impressed during the group stage and will relish the opportunity to attack a French defence that has not always looked impenetrable.
With so much attacking quality on display, both teams finding the net looks a strong selection.
Kylian Mbappe Anytime Goalscorer
Big players tend to shine in the knockout stages, and few players are bigger than Kylian Mbappe.
The France captain has already found the net multiple times during the group phase and remains the focal point of Deschamps’ attack. His pace, movement and finishing ability make him one of the most difficult players in world football to contain.
Sweden have been well organised defensively, but Mbappe only needs a split second to make the difference.
If France are to progress, there is every chance their superstar forward will play a decisive role.
Score Prediction: France 3-1 Sweden
