French unity on display as their ruthless run through World Cup continues

World Cup: French unity on display against Sweden as their ruthless run to title rolls on

As soon as Kylian Mbappé scored France's first goal against Sweden he sprinted to celebrate with manager Didier Deschamps.

Deschamps had missed the final group game to attend his mother's funeral, and as Mbappé and all his teammates followed to swamp their coach it spoke volumes.

We can, and will, talk ad nauseam about how mind-bogglingly good this team is, full of Galacticos, and a second XI waiting in the wings that could also just about beat every other team.

But that is not what will win them the World Cup, should they go all the way as many expect after another ruthless victory, this time a 3-0 drubbing of Sweden in the round of 32.

It is a sense of unity and selflessness that is their greatest asset.

Mbappé uncharacteristically missed out on cashing in on the goals in the 4-1 win over Norway, though he was still a vital contributor.

The natural world order was restored here.

After several false starts including the intervention of the woodwork, he picked up two sublime goals to join golden boot leader Lionel Messi with six.

Mbappé raced to coach Didier Deschamps to celebrate his first goal. (Getty Images/Europa Press Sports)

He's now just one behind Messi for the overall tournament record of 19. Surely that comes this weekend in the round of 16.

And importantly he is enjoying himself.

"I'm not saying that the other World Cups I did not enjoy, but I was younger. I was focused then in delivering the best performances," he said.

"And today I believe I can do both: delivering great performances and obviously enjoying [it]."

He worked hard to link up with his other frontmen in a dazzling display, and he and Ousmane Dembélé have now assisted each other for six goals. Bradley Barcola's rocket of a goal was another high point.

This French team is now the first in World Cup history to score three or more goals in five consecutive games.

Bradley Barcola produced an impressive performance, highlighted by a goal. (Getty Images: Tom Weller)

And as good as those strikes were, the superlatives for this game largely belong to Michael Olise.

He was the heartbeat of the team, pumping crucial balls in distribution, shocking the team to life with his assists, and giving us the best that never was.

In the first half, as Les Bleus were applying unbelievable pressure but unfathomably not finding the back of the net, Olise unleashed an audacious scissor kick which hit the post.

It was a shot that so few could even have the skill set to attempt, let alone almost pull off, in what would have been one of the greatest ever World Cup goals.

Michael Olise with an incredible attempt for France that almost came off. (Getty Images: Mattia Ozbot)

Instead, he settled into the rest of the match in the role he has been so valuable in, his five assists at this tournament overall are two more than any other player.

The goals can come from anywhere and Les Bleus have torn apart all comers so far, each game different players stepping up to shine brightest.

Deschamps acknowledged that spirit within his players.

"There's a very strong connection when we have the ball against deep-defending opponents, and when we lose it everyone is willing to work hard," he said.

"I'm satisfied and proud of that. Now we have to maintain it and keep repeating it.

"We have to keep raising our standards because the opposition will only get stronger."

So who do you know this team with such stunning attacking weapons will face next?

None other than the defensive wall of Paraguay, the surprise round of 16 opponents after a determined upset of Germany.

It will take place on July 4, Independence Day here in the city called the birthplace of America, Philadelphia.

It is hard to see that day being any other than a French Revolution.

While the celebrations at this tournament from some fans have been frankly unhinged, Les Bleus and their supporters are keeping it professional.

There is no need for streams of tears or collapsing in each other's arms after a round of 32 win.

Les Bleus players and supporters were satisfied with the win. (Getty Images/Europa Press Sports)

There was a well deserved standing ovation for Olise and Mbappé as they were substituted late in the game, but there was never any danger of anyone being overcome with emotion.

At full time the players casually strolled to the large section of France supporters in one corner of the stadium, smiling and applauding, returned with exuberant cheers.

A contrast to Norway, for example, making a big show of doing the now world famous Viking row with fans after its earlier win over Côte d'Ivoire.

Outside the stadium the Swedish fans were nonplussed, having been resigned to their fate well before kick off.

"It is what it is," one fan shrugged and said matter of factly.

The French fans were keeping a lid on it too, happy with the win, but knowing the job is not even close to being done.

And maybe that is what is most frightening of all. This is just another day at the office.