World Cup 2026: Michael Olise makes history as France’s creative genius shines again

Michael Olise continues to establish himself as the heartbeat of France’s attack after another masterclass in Les Bleus’ 3-0 victory over Sweden in the Round of 32. The Bayern Munich star produced two more assists, taking his tournament tally to five and becoming the first player in 32 years to reach that mark at a single FIFA World Cup.

Olise set up Bradley Barcola shortly after the restart before providing another perfectly weighted pass for Kylian Mbappe in the 74th minute, helping France book their place in the quarter-finals in emphatic fashion. His five assists are the most by any player at one World Cup since Germany’s Thomas Häßler achieved the feat in 1994.

The 24-year-old has emerged as the undisputed focal point of France’s attacking play, combining brilliantly with Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Barcola. His vision, composure and ability to unlock compact defences have elevated Les Bleus to another level during the tournament.

France’s dominant group-stage campaign

France entered the knockout rounds as one of the tournament favourites after producing a flawless group-stage performance.

Didier Deschamps’ side opened with a convincing victory over Senegal before defeating Iraq and overcoming Norway to finish top of Group I with a perfect nine points. They scored 10 goals and conceded only twice, demonstrating both attacking firepower and defensive stability.

Olise played a central role throughout the group phase, contributing three assists before adding two more against Sweden. Meanwhile, Mbappe finished the opening round with four goals, while Barcola and Dembele provided further evidence of France’s remarkable depth in attack.

By defeating Sweden, France made it four wins from four matches at the tournament, scoring 13 goals in the process and reinforcing their status as perhaps the most complete side remaining in the competition.

Didier Deschamps praises unity and attacking freedom

Following the victory, Didier Deschamps praised both the collective spirit of his squad and the freedom his attacking players are enjoying.

The France manager stressed that while the performance was impressive, the team must continue improving as the challenges become tougher deeper into the tournament. He highlighted the connection between Mbappe and Olise as a major weapon but insisted that the squad’s unity remains its greatest strength.

Deschamps also noted that his players showed tremendous focus despite the emotional circumstances surrounding his recent return to the camp following his mother’s funeral. The coach described the bond within the group as exceptional and praised his captain, Mbappe, for leading both on and off the pitch.

“There is a strong connection between these players. They play for each other, they work for each other, and that is what makes this team special,” Deschamps said after the match. France’s manager also cautioned that the knockout stages demand even greater concentration, adding that the team must remain humble despite their impressive form.

With Olise rewriting the record books and France producing some of the most exhilarating football of the tournament, Les Bleus are increasingly looking like the team to beat as they continue their pursuit of a third World Cup title.