FIFA World Cup 2026: Swedish FA thanks fans after 3-0 defeat to France ends campaign
New York, July 1
The Swedish Football Association thanked supporters for their unwavering backing after Sweden's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ended with a 3-0 defeat to France in the Round of 32.
In a post on X after the match, the Swedish FA expressed gratitude to fans who supported the team throughout the tournament, both in the stadiums and back home.
"We gave everything - but here, unfortunately, our World Cup summer comes to an end. Thanks to the entire Swedish people for incredible support, both on-site and back home," the official account wrote.
A clinical double from talismanic captain Kylian Mbappe steered France to an emphatic 3-0 victory over Sweden at the New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium), punching Les Bleus' ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
While Sweden exits the tournament after a spirited run, France marches confidently into the round of 16, where they will lock horns with Paraguay on July 4.
Didier Deschamps, returning to the touchline after missing the final group game due to personal bereavement (following his mother's funeral), watched his side systematically dismantle a stubborn Swedish defence.
Entering the match tied with Brazilian icon Ronaldo and legendary pre-war forward Leonidas at 8 career knockout stage goals, Mbappe's strikes in the 45th and 74th minutes pushed his total to 10 knockout stage goals, the most by any player in the history of the competition.
Mbappe's knack for delivering when the stakes are highest has defined his international career. His updated goal tallies paint the picture of a player performing at unprecedented efficiency. In the knockout stage, he has now scored 10 goals, bypassing Ronaldo (8) & Leonidas (8) for the record.
Mbappe's sixth goal of the tournament drew him level with Argentina legend Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot.
The brace also took his World Cup tally to 18 goals in just 18 appearances, leaving him one shy of Messi's all-time record of 19 goals, achieved across 29 World Cup matches.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Class act from the Swedish FA to thank the fans like that. Even in defeat, they showed grace. France were too strong though, Mbappe is a machine. Hope India can learn from these smaller nations on how to build a team culture. 👏
Didier Deschamps coming back after his mother's funeral and winning like this - respect. That takes real mental strength. France is looking dangerous for the title. Sweden can be proud though, they got past the group stage and that's no small feat.
Honestly, I think Sweden's defence was too defensive at times. You need to show some attacking intent against France. But Mbappe is just on another level - he makes even good defenders look average. Now I'm rooting for France vs Paraguay.
Sweden fans must be heartbroken, but at least they went out fighting against one of the best teams. Mbappe breaking Ronaldo's record is history in the making. Golden Boot race between him and Messi is going to be epic. India needs to start taking football seriously!
As a neutral fan, this was a great match to watch. France were clinical, Sweden were resilient but just couldn't handle the pressure. One small criticism: Sweden's coach should have made changes earlier in the second half. Still, a good run overall for them. 🇫🇷🇸🇪
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