The World Cup knockout stages continue this evening with two matches: France vs Sweden at MetLife Stadium and Norway vs Ivory Coast in Arlington, Texas. France aim to reclaim the title they lost to Argentina in 2022, having won their first World Cup since 1998 by defeating Croatia 4-2 in Moscow eight years ago.
France vs Sweden: Key Details
Didier Deschamps returns to the dugout after missing France's final Group I match—a 4-1 win over an understrength Norway—to attend his father's funeral. Sweden, coached by Graham Potter, advanced with a third-placed finish in Group F, securing a win over Tunisia, a draw with Japan, and a heavy loss to the Netherlands. Sweden's attack features Arsenal's Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak, with Potter using a 3-5-2 formation to accommodate both.
Norway vs Ivory Coast
Norway's Stale Solbakken is expected to start star players Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard after resting them in the previous match against France, having already secured qualification from Group I. The Ivory Coast boast a strong backbone of experienced talent, including former Chelsea players Edouard Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly, with Sadio Mane leading the attack.
Other Group Stage Matches
The group stage concludes in Group J, where holders Argentina—already guaranteed first place—will rest Lionel Messi as they face Jordan, who are already eliminated. Algeria and Austria, both on three points, meet in Kansas City with a place in the round of 32 at stake.
How to Watch
Norway vs Ivory Coast kicks off at 6pm BST on BBC One, with coverage from 5.30pm. Stream for free on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website. France vs Sweden starts at 10pm BST on ITV1, with coverage from 9.15pm; stream free on ITVX.
