Wayne Lumbasi
Kylian Mbappe etched his name into French football history after scoring twice in France’s 3-1 victory over Senegal national football team in their opening 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I match.
The French captain delivered when it mattered most, helping France overcome a resilient Senegal side that had looked the better team for much of the first half. Mbappe opened the scoring in the 66th minute before adding a spectacular long-range strike deep into stoppage time. Between his two goals, substitute Bradley Barcola doubled France’s advantage, while Ibrahim Mbaye grabbed a late consolation goal for Senegal.
The brace took Mbappe’s international tally to 58 goals, allowing him to surpass former France striker Olivier Giroud and become the all-time leading scorer in the history of the French men’s national team. He achieved the milestone at just 27 years of age and in significantly fewer appearances than Giroud.
Mbappe’s achievement did not stop there. His two goals also lifted his World Cup total to 14, making him France’s highest scorer in World Cup history and moving him level with German legend Gerd Muller on the tournament’s all-time scoring list. He now trails only Ronaldo Nazário and Miroslav Klose in World Cup goals scored.
Despite the defeat, Senegal showed plenty of promise and created several dangerous opportunities, particularly in the first half. However, France’s experience and attacking quality proved decisive after the break as Didier Deschamps’ side took control of the contest.
The victory gives France an ideal start to their World Cup campaign and reinforces their status as one of the tournament favorites. For Mbappe, it was another historic night that further strengthened his legacy as one of the greatest players in French football history.
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