New Jersey: France midfielder Michael Olise is rewriting FIFA World Cup history with a series of dazzling performances, the latest being a masterclass against Sweden that has placed him alongside some of football’s greatest names.
The 24-year-old playmaker provided all three assists in France’s commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden in the Round of 32, underlining his growing influence as the creative heartbeat of Didier Deschamps’ side.
Olise pulls the strings for France
Operating in a central No. 10 role, Olise orchestrated France’s attack with precision and flair, setting up goals for Kylian Mbappe—who scored twice—and Bradley Barcola.
France have now scored 13 goals in four matches, reinforcing their status as one of the favourites to lift the trophy. While Mbappe leads the scoring charts, much of the team’s attacking fluidity has come from Olise’s creativity.
On the brink of World Cup history
With five assists already in the tournament, Olise has set a new benchmark for the most assists in a single World Cup edition in the 21st century. He now sits just one assist behind Brazilian legend Pele’s all-time record of six in a single tournament.
He has also drawn level with iconic names such as Diego Maradona and is closing in on the career World Cup assist record held jointly by Maradona and Lionel Messi.
France embrace attacking flair
Under head coach Didier Deschamps, France appear to have shifted from a pragmatic approach to a more attack-driven style, allowing players like Olise to thrive.
This tactical evolution has made Les Bleus one of the most entertaining teams in the tournament, combining efficiency with flair as they progress to the Round of 16.
Skill, confidence and rising stardom
Olise nearly added a spectacular goal to his tally against Sweden with an audacious bicycle kick that struck the post—an effort that drew admiration even from Mbappe.
“It was a fantastic bit of skill. People come to the stadium to see that kind of thing,” Mbappe said after the match.
Having already enjoyed a stellar club season with Bayern Munich, Olise has carried that form onto the international stage, solidifying his reputation as one of football’s brightest talents.
Future Ballon d’Or contender?
Former France international Patrick Vieira once described Olise as a “future Ballon d’Or winner”—a prediction that now appears increasingly realistic.
With his performances at the World Cup capturing global attention, Olise is emerging not just as a key player for France, but as a potential heir to the game’s greatest playmakers.
Conclusion
As France continue their march towards another World Cup title, Michael Olise’s brilliance is proving decisive. If he maintains this level, he could not only guide Les Bleus deep into the tournament but also etch his name alongside legends of the game.