French Show 'Masterful' Performance, European Media Hail World Cup Three-Time Champion Hopes

2026 World Cup Key News

(CNA Paris, July 1) - The French team defeated Sweden 3-0 last night in the World Cup, advancing to the Round of 16. Star player Mbappé perfectly coordinated with his teammates in this match, scoring 2 goals himself. Many European and American media outlets praised France's dominance on the field, stating they are highly likely to win the championship again.

As of now, Mbappé (Kylian Mbappé) has scored 6 goals in this tournament, bringing his career World Cup total to 18 goals, just one shy of Argentine star Messi (Lionel Messi).

The French national team's jersey is embroidered with two stars, representing their two World Cup titles to date, won in 1998 and 2018.

French newspaper Le Parisien quoted Sweden's head coach Graham Potter as saying at a press conference: "France is the best team in this tournament. I haven't seen a better team than France. The strength in every position and the choice of substitute players are very strong. I wish their opponents good luck."

Spanish newspaper Marca reported that France's "brilliant performance convinces us that they will be the hottest favorite (to win this tournament)." Head coach Didier Deschamps' thorough transformation has made "France no longer just a team that scores through running counter-attacks, but one that controls the entire field."

Spanish newspaper El Mundo Deportivo's headline was "Terrifying France," but the article also mentioned the joy of competition, stating, "France's style of play is simple and brilliant, inspiring and satisfying. How can you not love this sport when watching such a team play?"

British newspaper The Guardian called the match one to "remember," with the French team delivering a "masterful" performance, calmly defeating their opponent. "Currently, it is difficult to imagine any other team (winning the championship) besides Deschamps' team, and it feels like they haven't even reached their peak yet."

France's next match will be against Paraguay early on the morning of the 5th, Taiwan time. Paraguayan newspaper Última Hora reported that the French team is "gradually awakening and finally unleashing its full power," becoming a "whirlwind" that broke through Sweden's defense. However, the article also pointed out that Paraguayan players are "eager to try" and "full of fighting spirit," and French players like Mbappé and Olise "will have to give their all to continue advancing."

Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello sport praised France's outstanding performance and Mbappé's exquisite skills, making it difficult to predict how Paraguay will face France.

German media Kicker praised French player Michael Olise as "unstoppable" and quoted his teammate Bradley Barcola's assessment, calling Olise a "genius who creates threats every time he touches the ball."

German magazine Der Spiegel commented: "This super team from France is moving at full speed, displaying excellent technique."

An article by American sports channel ESPN commented that France's performance was "simple, fluid, beautiful, and impressive: this is France. Dangerous everywhere, (France is) full of confidence, and these players clearly enjoy playing together... France was already considered a favorite to win the championship, and now they are even more likely to win this tournament."

The World Cup final will be held on the 19th of this month, US time. (Editor: Tian Ruihua) 1150701

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