Kylian Mbappe etched his name deeper into French football history on Tuesday night, scoring twice as France opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a 3-1 victory over Senegal while becoming Les Bleus’ all-time highest goalscorer.
The Real Madrid forward entered the match level with former Arsenal and AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud on 57 international goals. He left New Jersey as France’s outright record scorer after a clinical brace carried his tally to 58 goals.
France had to work hard to overcome a spirited Senegal side that threatened to frustrate Didier Deschamps’ men for long periods of the Group I encounter.
Mbappe’s historic breakthrough arrived in the second half when he latched onto a defence-splitting pass from Michael Olise and calmly finished to draw level with Giroud’s long-standing record.
The 27-year-old was not done.
Record breaker delivers in style
After Bradley Barcola doubled France’s advantage, Senegal briefly reignited the contest when substitute Ibrahim Mbaye pulled a goal back.
The young forward, already being touted by some observers as a future star capable of following in Mbappe’s footsteps, finished neatly to reduce the deficit and give the African side hope of a late comeback.
However, any hopes of a Senegal revival were extinguished in dramatic fashion.
Deep into stoppage time, Mbappe unleashed a stunning long-range strike that flew beyond the goalkeeper and into the net, sealing both the victory and a place in French football history.
The goal took him past Giroud and made him the highest goalscorer ever to wear the French national team jersey.
Controversy as penalty appeal denied
The match was not without controversy.
Mbappe appeared to have a strong case for a penalty after a challenge from Senegal captain Sadio Mane inside the area. Referee Alireza Faghani was advised to review the incident on the pitchside monitor but ultimately chose to uphold his original decision, leaving French players and supporters frustrated.
Despite the contentious moment, France’s superior quality eventually proved decisive as they secured all three points to begin their World Cup campaign on a winning note.
Early statement from tournament favourites
The result reinforces France’s status as one of the leading contenders for the World Cup title.
With Mbappe already in record-breaking form and a squad packed with attacking talent, Les Bleus have signalled their intention to mount another serious challenge for football’s biggest prize.
For Senegal, the defeat represents a disappointing start, but there were encouraging signs from a side that competed strongly against one of the tournament favourites and showed enough quality to remain a threat in the race for qualification.
As for Mbappe, the evening belonged entirely to him.
Another World Cup, another milestone, and another reminder that one of football’s greatest talents continues to redefine the record books.
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