Mbappé Scores Twice, Surpasses Messi's World Cup Tally as France Defeats Senegal 3-1

Kylian Mbappé delivered a standout performance in France's 2026 World Cup debut, scoring two goals to lead his team to a 3-1 victory over Senegal. The French superstar netted his first goal in the 66th minute and added another in stoppage time, bringing his total World Cup goal count to 14.

This achievement places Mbappé in a tie for third place on the all-time World Cup scorers list, alongside Germany's Gerd Müller. He now trails only Brazil's Ronaldo (15 goals) and Germany's Miroslav Klose (16 goals). Mbappé's brace surpassed Lionel Messi's 13 World Cup goals.

France, the reigning champions from 2018 and runners-up in 2022, are considered strong contenders for the title again. Despite a quiet first half where Mbappé had limited involvement, the team significantly improved their offensive play after halftime. Bradley Barcola also contributed to the scoreline with a goal in the 82nd minute.

Senegal, who famously upset France in the 2002 World Cup, managed to pull one back in stoppage time through 18-year-old Ibrahim MBAYE. However, Mbappé's final goal sealed the win for the French side.