France returns with coach Deschamps for World Cup round‑of‑32 match

France resumed play in the World Cup round of 32 with coach Didier Deschamps back on the sideline after traveling to Europe for his mother’s funeral. Les Bleus face Sweden in East Rutherford, New Jersey, having swept their group stage for the first time since 1998. Norway arrived in North Texas for its first knockout match since 1998, meeting Ivory Coast after a “surreal” reception on the tarmac; striker Erling Haaland sat out the group‑stage finale and will lead the side against the Ivory Coast. Host nation Mexico hosts Ecuador at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, hoping a raucous home crowd and altitude advantage will boost its chances. The round of 32 also features Ivory Coast’s debut knockout appearance. Injuries keep France’s Marcus Thuram out and leave N’Golo Kanté uncertain, while Sweden’s Isak Hien misses the match with a hamstring injury.