Michael Olise has been called the 'official distributor of happiness' in France after his two-assist display in France's 3-0 win against Sweden, which secured their place in the World Cup last 16. The Bayern Munich forward, yet to score at the tournament, has five assists in four games, just four shy of Lionel Messi's all-time record of nine.
Olise's creative brilliance steals the show
Despite Didier Deschamps challenging journalists to 'find the issues' after the Sweden match, fans and media have been unanimous in praise. Le Figaro called Olise 'an artist who has captured hearts', while Le Parisien labelled him the 'official distributor of happiness'. L'Équipe dubbed him the 'universal donor' for his selfless performance.
The London-born midfielder, who joined the France setup in 2024 for the Paris Olympics under Thierry Henry, has imposed himself as the leading creator of the Deschamps era. A poll midway through the group stage saw a quarter of respondents select Olise as the team's best player.
Defensive duties and creative freedom
Deschamps noted Olise's defensive efforts: 'When Michael is on the ball, a lot of things can happen. He feeds the attackers and links with the midfield, where he also drops back to help out.' Olise's workrate belies his nonchalant movement, and he has not been exempted from defensive duties.
Deschamps believes Olise can reach Kylian Mbappé's level: 'He's in that category, in terms of what he's been doing at his club and with us. Ousmane Dembélé is also up there. There are a lot of players in that category, and they're French! His personality is a bit introverted, but the important thing is that he doesn't stay introverted on the pitch.'
France's attacking quartet and telepathic understanding
France's free-flowing attack, featuring Mbappé, Olise, and a rotating left wing between Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola, has scored 13 goals in four games. Mbappé has 18 goals in 18 World Cup games after scoring twice against Sweden. Despite playing for three different clubs, the forwards 'speak the same football', according to Deschamps.
Olise's bicycle-kick against Sweden hit the post, but Mbappé said: 'He was unlucky, but these are the kinds of moves that fans come to the stadium for.'
Last-16 tie brings back 1998 memories
France's last-16 opponent will evoke fond memories for Deschamps, who captained France to a 1-0 golden-goal win over Paraguay in 1998 at the same stage. Deschamps has urged caution, pointing to the 'aggression' that helped their next opponents knock out Germany.
It is hard to see the current France team needing extra time, however, given their dominant form.
