World Cup 2026: Michael Olise extends assist lead as France continue dominant march

France midfielder Michael Olise strengthened his position as the leading creator at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after producing two more assists in Les Bleus’ emphatic 3-0 Round of 32 victory over Sweden.

The Bayern Munich star set up Bradley Barcola’s goal in the 53rd minute with a perfectly weighted through ball before combining brilliantly with Kylian Mbappe again in the 74th minute, delivering another decisive pass for the France captain to complete his brace.

Olise has now registered five assists in the tournament, moving clear at the top of the standings ahead of Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, who sits second with four. The tally is already the highest recorded by a player in a single World Cup campaign since 1994, with France still having potentially three matches remaining.

The 24-year-old has emerged as one of the tournament’s standout performers, forming a devastating partnership with Mbappé and providing the creative spark behind France’s relentless attack. His understanding with the Real Madrid superstar has been one of the defining stories of the competition.

France’s impressive group-stage campaign

France entered the knockout rounds as arguably the tournament’s form team after winning all three Group I matches in convincing fashion. Didier Deschamps’ side opened their campaign with a commanding victory over Senegal before overcoming Iraq and then defeating Norway to finish top of the group with a perfect nine points.

Les Bleus scored at least three goals in each of their group matches, underlining the extraordinary depth and firepower available to Deschamps. By the end of the first phase, France had already established themselves among the favourites to lift the trophy.

Their attacking quartet of Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Bradley Barcola and Olise has proved particularly devastating. France have now scored three or more goals in five consecutive World Cup matches stretching back to the previous tournament, a feat unmatched in World Cup history.

Mbappe currently shares the lead in the Golden Boot race with six goals, while Olise has become the competition’s premier playmaker. Together, they have driven France into the Round of 16, where Paraguay await.

With an unbeaten record, a prolific attack and the tournament’s leading assister in sensational form, France continue to strengthen their credentials as one of the favourites to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup.