Kylian Mbappe hails France team unity as FIFA World Cup journey continues

Mbappe scored twice while Bradley Barcola also found the back of the net as France put their fellow European country to the sword in the World Cup knockout clash.

The victory was also significant as France welcomed back head coach Didier Deschamps after the mentor returned home earlier during global tournament due to the death of his mother.

Deschamps missed the 4-1 group stage victory over Norway last week but was back on the touchline and Mbappe embraced his coach after opening the scoring in the first half against the Swedes.

Speaking to beIN Sports after the win, Mbappe said: "I think that reflects the spirit of this group - it's part of our DNA. We are all together.

"We know the coach has been through a difficult experience; unfortunately, everyone goes through that at some point and it's very hard.

"There are things that are more important than football, but he needs to know -- and he already does - that through this gesture from the entire team, he can see he will never be alone with us, and whatever happens, we'll be there to support him."

Deschamps was touched by his skipper's gesture and is optimistic about their chances to go further at the World Cup.

"Obviously on a personal level Kylian's gesture moved me a lot. He's our captain, and I'm not saying good things about him just for the sake of it, it's because he's been exemplary from day one," said Deschamps.

"The group stayed united, they did what needed to be done when I wasn't there, and it was better for me and for them that I wasn't there.

"And from the moment I came back, they knew I was with them. But it's a very good thing. The mindset of a group doesn't win matches, but I know all too well that it can make you lose them."

READ MORE: Tottenham agree deal for West Ham's Mateus Fernandes after Man Utd refuse fee