Kylian Mbappe once again delivered when it mattered most, guiding France past a spirited Senegal side. His brace not only sealed victory but also etched his name into French football history.
The Real Madrid forward moved to 58 international goals, surpassing Olivier Giroud’s long-standing record. However, the scoreline did not fully reflect the early balance of the contest.
Senegal began with intensity and purpose as the West Africans unsettled France’s star-studded attack. Their pressing forced errors, while their movement created clear opportunities in dangerous areas.
Nicolas Jackson came closest early on, hitting the base of the post with a powerful effort. The rebound deflected off Mike Maignan before narrowly rolling wide.
Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr then missed a golden chance before the break when he failed to convert Sadio Mane’s inviting cross. France, meanwhile, struggled to impose themselves and lacked attacking cohesion.
Mbappe remained quiet in the opening half, barely influencing proceedings in the final third. Also, France managed minimal touches in Senegal’s penalty area before halftime.
However, the momentum shifted after the interval, with France returning sharper and more aggressive. A controversial moment followed when Mbappe went down inside the box under Mane’s challenge.
Referee Alireza Faghani reviewed the incident but stood by his original decision. He ruled that Mbappe had initiated the contact, denying France a penalty.
Mbappe’s record-breaking brace highlights France’s resilience after early Senegal dominance in World Cup outing
France responded emphatically, with Mbappe drawing the first blood through decisive movement. Soon after, substitute Bradley Barcola extended the lead with a composed finish.
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Senegal refused to fade quietly, as teenager Ibrahim Mbaye unleashed a powerful strike. His goal briefly brought a glimpse of hope and injected fresh tension into the match.
Yet Mbappe delivered the final blow, striking from distance in the dying moments of injury time to secure the result. His second goal confirmed France’s superiority in the closing stages.
“People will still criticise him,” said Deschamps.
“He can from time to time miss a game or two but on one action he really is able to tip the scales and bring his team to victory.
“People say he doesn’t defend enough – well, he isn’t here to defend. He is only 27… he does a lot for the group as a captain,” Deschamps added.
The performance highlighted both France’s vulnerabilities and their match-winning quality. Senegal, despite defeat, showed they remain a dangerous and disciplined side.
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France now turn their focus to Iraq, aiming to build on this hard-fought victory. Meanwhile, Senegal must regroup quickly to keep their hopes alive.
