Mbappe, France advance to knockout stage
DOHA, Qatar — France advanced, and Kylian Mbappe got them there.
The French became the first defending champions to reach the round of 16 at the World Cup since Brazil in 2006, beating Denmark 2-1 Saturday with Mbappe scoring both goals.
“Kylian is an extraordinary player. He has the ability to make the difference at any time no matter what the other team plans to contain him,” France coach Didier Deschamps said. “In addition to his great ability he is totally invested in the team and he’s made it an objective of his to win the World Cup.”
Mbappe put his team in front in the 61st minute and then scored the winner with his right thigh in the 86th as Les Bleus became the first team at this year’s tournament to advance from the group stage.
The France forward swapped passes with Theo Hernandez down the left flank and poked the ball past Denmark goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel for the first goal. He then jumped acrobatically to guide in the second after a cross from Antoine Griezmann — who adapted well in a midfield role and provided his 26th assist.
Denmark defender Andreas Christensen equalized for his team with a header in the 68th.
AUSTRALIA 1, TUNISIA 0
It was an emotionfilled day for Australia, which beat Tunisia Saturday at Al Wakrah, Qatar.
Mitchel Duke gave Australia the lead midway through the first half with a header and Australia went on to register its first win since a victory over Serbia in 2010.
“I actually was messaging some of my family, saying that I was going to score today, and I told my son that I was going to be able to share this moment with him and get that celebration,” Duke said.
It was Australia’s first shutout at the World Cup since its tournament debut in 1974 and it means the Socceroos still have a chance to qualify for the round of 16.
In the final round of group games on Wednesday, Tunisia will play France and Australia will meet Denmark.
POLAND 2, SAUDI ARABIA 0
Robert Lewandowski at last scored a goal in a World Cup match on Saturday, helping Poland beat Saudi Arabia at Al Ryyan, Qatar and boosting his team’s chances of reaching the knockout stages.
Lewandowski shed tears after scoring in the 82nd minute. He raced toward the corner with his arms outstretched, then stayed on the field as teammates rushed to congratulate him.
“I always wanted to score at the World Cup and this dream came true,” said Lewandowski.