Mbappe Hails France's Unity Behind Deschamps

France captain Kylian Mbappe said the squad had come together in support of coach Didier Deschamps following the death of his mother, after a commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden on Tuesday secured their place in the World Cup last 16.

Mbappe scored twice to take his tournament tally to six goals and his overall World Cup total to 18, as France booked a round-of-16 clash with Paraguay.

The Real Madrid forward broke the deadlock late in the first half in New Jersey before running to embrace Deschamps, who had returned to the United States over the weekend after travelling to France for his mother's funeral.

"I think it reflects the spirit of this group -- it's part of our DNA. We stick together," Mbappe told French broadcaster beIN Sports.

"We know the coach has been through a very difficult time. Sadly, everyone faces moments like this in life, and they are never easy.

"There are things far more important than football. Through this gesture from the whole team, we wanted him to know that he will never be alone. Whatever happens, we'll always be there to support him."

Deschamps was absent for France's 4-1 victory over Norway in Foxborough last week after returning home to attend the funeral.

Assistant coach Guy Stephan took charge during his absence, just as he did for a UEFA Nations League match in 2022 following the death of Deschamps' father.

Deschamps, who is set to step down as France coach after this World Cup, ending a 14-year tenure in charge of Les Bleus, said he was deeply moved by the team's show of support.

"On a personal level, Kylian's gesture touched me greatly," Deschamps said. "He's our captain, and I'm not praising him for the sake of it. He's been exemplary from the very first day.

"The group stayed united and handled everything that needed to be done while I was away. It was better for both them and me that I wasn't there.

"When I returned, they knew I was back with them. It's a very positive sign. A strong team spirit doesn't win matches on its own, but I know from experience that a lack of it can certainly make you lose them."