France booked their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in emphatic fashion as Kylian Mbappé delivered yet another masterclass, scoring twice in a commanding 4–0 victory over Ukraine at the Parc des Princes. The French captain, already in irresistible form for Real Madrid, carried that momentum into international duty as he surged closer to a landmark 400 career goals.
Before kick-off, the stadium united in a poignant tribute to the 132 victims of the 2015 Paris terror attacks, followed by a message of solidarity with Ukraine amid ongoing conflict. But once the whistle blew, the emotional tension gave way to France’s total domination.
Despite a flurry of first-half chances, the hosts were repeatedly denied by Ukrainian goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin. France, controlling 67% possession, unleashed waves of attack but went into the break goalless. Ukraine, suffocated by France’s high press, failed to register even a single shot all match.
The breakthrough arrived in the 53rd minute when Mbappé coolly chipped in a Panenka penalty. Michael Olise doubled the lead with a sharp left-footed strike on 76 minutes, before Mbappé added his second — his 55th international goal in 94 appearances, putting him just two shy of Olivier Giroud’s all-time French record.
Substitute Hugo Ekitike sealed the win with an 88th-minute low drive after a slick one-two with Mbappé. With 13 points from five matches, France top Group D, ahead of Iceland and Ukraine, securing their ticket to North America with confidence to spare.
Manager Didier Deschamps praised his captain’s leadership and brilliance, remarking:
“Kylian changes everything for us. He simplifies the game, he inspires the squad, and once again he’s proved why he’s both a leader and a world-class player.”
Match Statistics
| Category | France | Ukraine |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 67% | 33% |
| Total Shots | 23 | 0 |
| Shots on Target | 9 | 0 |
| Goals | 4 | 0 |
| Mbappé Goals | 2 | — |
| Other Scorers | Olise, Ekitike | — |
Mbappé’s 2024–25 Season Overview
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Club + International Matches | 20 |
| Total Goal Contributions | 28 |
| International Goals | 55 |
| Career Goals | 400 |
