Sweden await France in the round of 16, Deschamps back at training

Sweden in the round of 16

Your path is set. France face Sweden in the World Cup round of 16 (1). The group stage wrapped up overnight Saturday into Sunday with the final six matches, locking in the full knockout bracket (3). Sweden are a familiar opponent but dangerous, they topped their group and carry real threat on the counter.

Deschamps back with the squad

Didier Deschamps returned to training Saturday after attending his mother's funeral (2). He was seen talking with Rayan Cherki and sharing a moment with Adil Rami at the session. The boss is back where he belongs, three days out from the biggest match of the summer so far.

Saliba injury not serious

William Saliba missed the Norway match with a back problem but the injury is not believed to be serious (4). Maxence Lacroix stepped in alongside the back line. No final call yet on Saliba's availability for Sweden, but the early signs are encouraging.

Riolo: Dembélé's spot is safe

The Dembélé debate is settled, at least in Daniel Riolo's eyes. "Dembélé is not in danger," he said, three days out from France-Sweden (5). The criticism after the group stage was loud, but Deschamps knows what Dembélé gives him, raw one-on-one threat that few others in the squad can replicate.

Fan reactions

Fans on Reddit picked up on the Norway coach's admission that resting Erling Haaland against France was "a no-brainer", and the mood split. Some saw it as a compliment, proof Norway didn't fancy their chances. Others read it as disrespect, a sign your team's group-stage aura wasn't what it should be. Join the discussion.