Mbappe double sends France into knockout rounds after lengthy weather delay

Kylian Mbappe netted a brace, propelling France into the World Cup knockout stages with a commanding 3-0 win against Iraq. The Group I clash, however, was an affair of endurance, stretching to nearly four hours due to a lengthy delay caused by severe thunderstorms and lightning in Philadelphia.

Mbappe struck once before the interval and added another goal after halftime, extending his World Cup tally and placing him just two goals behind Lionel Messi on the all-time scoring list. Ousmane Dembele sealed the victory with France's third goal, ensuring the team maintained its flawless start to the tournament and secured six points.

The second half commenced after an approximate two-hour suspension, a necessary precaution taken due to the hazardous weather conditions. Despite the disruption, France demonstrated its prowess, ultimately overcoming the delay and their opponents to confirm their progression.

France will conclude their group stage campaign against Norway in Boston, while Iraq faces Senegal in their final match, with both teams playing for pride as they are already eliminated from advancing.

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Kylian Mbappe applauds their fans as he leaves the pitch after being substituted