Mbappé Scores Twice as France Defeats Senegal 3-1

France secured a 3-1 victory over Senegal, with Kylian Mbappé scoring a brace to draw level with Gerd Müller's 14 World Cup goals. The match, however, was a tale of two halves, with France showing a lack of offensive cohesion in the first period before finding their stride after the break.

Despite a strong start from Senegal, who nearly took the lead in the first half when Nico Jackson's shot hit the post, France struggled to break down their opponents. The attacking trio of Olise, Dembélé, and Mbappé, along with Doué, failed to create significant threats against a well-organized Senegalese defense. France's possession-based play often led to sterile build-ups, with their forwards unable to find clear passing lanes.

Following halftime, France intensified their attack. A warning shot from Doué was followed by Olise's attempt inside the box. The breakthrough came when Mbappé, after a pass from Olise, scored his first goal. Barcola extended the lead, but Senegal's Ibrahim Mbaye pulled one back, creating a tense finale. Mbappé then sealed the victory with his second goal, moving him into third place on the all-time World Cup scorers list, behind Miroslav Klose and Ronaldo Nazário.