Didier Deschamps to keep France's attacking approach for Sweden World Cup clash

France entered the knockout stage with a perfect record, winning all three group matches and scoring 10 goals against Senegal, Iraq and Norway. 

However, their attacking mentality has also allowed opponents to create chances, something Deschamps knows his side must manage as the tournament moves into its decisive stages.

The France head coach believes their ability to create opportunities remains their biggest strength and does not want his team to lose that identity.

"We have to score one more goal, not give up what we're capable of doing," Deschamps said. "We have conceded a few too many chances. Every match has a different scenario. We have the ability to create danger and hurt the opposition. That's our strength and I want us to keep that strength."

Midfielder Adrien Rabiot admitted France may need to make tactical adjustments against Sweden, with knockout football leaving little room for mistakes.

Rabiot felt France had not been seriously unbalanced during the group stage but accepted that defensive improvements would be important.

"Obviously, we gave away chances, but I didn't find there was a major imbalance," Rabiot said. "It requires adaptations and our back four have maintained a certain discipline. As we move forward in the competition, we may have to adjust certain things because knockout football is different from the group stage."

France are among the favourites to win the tournament, but Rabiot warned his team against becoming complacent. He pointed to France's shock last-16 defeat against Switzerland at Euro 2020 as a reminder that knockout matches can quickly turn against even the strongest teams.

"That experience helps us," Rabiot said. "Those who were there pass it on to the rest of the group. That's why we don't relax and take every match seriously."

Rabiot also praised Sweden's quality ahead of the clash, highlighting the threat posed by their attacking players.

"Sweden have quality players and a very strong attacking line with world-class players playing for big clubs," he said. "We know they have quality. We'll take them just as seriously as we took Iraq and Norway."

Deschamps also warned his squad about Sweden's defensive organisation, pace on the counter-attack and strength from set pieces.

"They defend with five and they are dangerous when there are spaces," he said. "They're also very good from set pieces and long throws. Just look at their front three - they all play for big clubs."

France will be without striker Marcus Thuram due to a muscle injury, while midfielder N'Golo Kante remains doubtful ahead of the Round of 32 tie.

France will face Sweden on Tuesday in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at New York New Jersey Stadium.