"This is a statement of intent. Everyone knows France is a contender, but their display showed precision and the ability to destroy opponents," Neville commented on ITV Sport.

Kylian Mbappe celebrates his opening goal with coach Didier Deschamps in France's 3-0 victory over Sweden in the 2026 World Cup round of 16 at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, US on 30/6. Photo: AP

The former Man Utd player was particularly impressed by France's attacking quartet: Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembele, and Bradley Barcola. "I often view games from a defensive perspective. These four players will be a nightmare for any defense in the tournament. I truly don't know how to stop them," he stated.

According to Neville, while many other contenders faced difficulties – Brazil secured a comeback win against Japan in the sixth minute of added time, and Germany and the Netherlands were eliminated – the France national football team demonstrated a clear difference.

"Everything they do is decisive," the 51-year-old former player said. "It's a pleasure to watch them play, and this was the best performance of the tournament so far. The tournament is still long, but if they don't win, they will be the ones to disappoint themselves, because France is currently ahead of all opponents."

At MetLife Stadium on 30/6, France dominated the match, controlling possession 61% and registering 25 shots with 13 on target, compared to Sweden's 8 shots with 3 on target. Kylian Mbappe shone with a brace, breaking a World Cup knockout stage scoring record, with Bradley Barcola also netting a goal.

Towards the end of the first half, Neville specifically praised Mbappe. "Mbappe's performance reminds me of Ronaldo Nazario at his peak. He creates a frightening feeling every time he has the ball. Just a small body feint is enough to make a difference," he remarked. "He is on a different level and very close to greatness."

Meanwhile, coach Didier Deschamps maintained a cautious stance. "We played a bit cautiously in the first 15 minutes," he said after the match. "But the team can create many chances. We made Sweden move constantly, and spaces gradually appeared. I congratulate the players because it was not easy. Many teams struggled in the previous round, but we did what was necessary. However, France has only reached the round of 8. The next opponent will bring different challenges."

Deschamps noted that his players are enjoying their football and fostering a positive atmosphere within the team. He dismissed the notion that the France national football team appears to have no weaknesses at the 2026 World Cup. "There are always areas for improvement. Always. If you want to, you can find problems. Not everything is perfect," he emphasized.

With a convincing 3-0 victory, France advanced and will face Paraguay in the round of 8 at Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US at 4 a.m. on 5/7, Hanoi time.

In the 1998 World Cup, which France won, the European representative defeated Paraguay 1-0, thanks to a goal from Laurent Blanc. Deschamps was the captain of the France national football team at that time.

Hong Duy (according to Sky Sports, Le Parisien)