Mexico Shine at Azteca as France and Norway Advance

Details

• Mexico’s match was delayed by an hour because of severe weather in Mexico City before the co-hosts took control in front of a loud Azteca crowd.
• Julián Quiñones opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with his third goal of the tournament, before Raúl Jiménez added the second nine minutes later.
• Ecuador had more possession after the break but created few clear chances against a Mexico defence that has not conceded at the tournament.
• Piero Hincapié was sent off in stoppage time after a VAR review for covering his mouth during a confrontation.
• France dominated Sweden in New York New Jersey, producing 25 goal attempts and controlling the match after breaking through just before half-time.
• Bradley Barcola scored France’s second early in the second half, while Michael Olise assisted two goals in another impressive attacking display.
• Mbappé moved level with Lionel Messi on six goals at this World Cup and became the all-time leading scorer in World Cup knockout matches, according to BBC Sport.
• Norway took the lead through Antonio Nusa’s curling first-half strike before Amad Diallo equalised for Côte d’Ivoire with a brilliant solo goal.
• Haaland struck in the 86th minute after a quiet game, continuing his scoring run for Norway and sending them into the next round.

What Else

• Mexico’s win keeps the co-hosts inside one of the tournament’s loudest home settings, where their defensive record and crowd energy could make them a difficult opponent for England or DR Congo.
• France face Paraguay next, with Mbappé, Olise, Barcola and Dembélé giving Didier Deschamps one of the most fluid attacks left in the competition.
• Norway’s reward is a high-profile meeting with Brazil, while Côte d’Ivoire exit after a strong campaign that still ended in their first World Cup knockout appearance.