France captain Kylian Mbappe etched his name into the history books after becoming France’s all-time leading goalscorer with a brilliant brace in Les Bleus’ 3-1 victory over Senegal in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The France national football team forward broke the deadlock in the second half with a composed low finish before dramatically sealing the win with a stunning long-range strike deep into stoppage time.
Mbappe’s second goal of the night took his tally for France to 58 goals, surpassing former record holder Olivier Giroud, who previously held the record with 57 goals.
France had earlier doubled their advantage through Bradley Barcola before Ibrahim Mbaye reduced the deficit for Senegal. However, Mbappe’s late strike ensured there would be no comeback from the Lions of Teranga.
Despite the final scoreline, Senegal produced an impressive performance, particularly in the first half, and created some of the game’s best chances.
Nicolas Jackson came closest to opening the scoring when his low effort struck the base of the post and rebounded off goalkeeper Mike Maignan before rolling narrowly wide.
Moments before halftime, Ismaila Sarr missed a golden opportunity after failing to direct his close-range effort on target from a cross delivered by Sadio Mane.
France thought they had won a penalty early in the second half when Mane appeared to make contact with Mbappe inside the area. However, after a VAR review, referee Alireza Faghani ruled that Mbappe had initiated the contact and overturned the decision.
The incident ultimately had little impact on the outcome as France stepped up their performance and Mbappe once again proved decisive on the biggest stage.
France manager Didier Deschamps praised his captain after the match.
“People will still criticise him. He can miss a game or two, but on one action he can tip the scales and bring his team to victory,” Deschamps said.
He added: “He is only 27 and does a lot for the group as captain. I am happy for him. He wanted to score in a real match, especially one with a global audience. He has a real aura.”
The victory gives France a strong start to their World Cup campaign, while Mbappe’s historic achievement further cements his place among the greatest players in French football history.
