Kylian Mbappe Scores Again as France Extend Perfect World Cup Qualifying Start
Kylian Mbappe Scores Again as France Extend Perfect World Cup Qualifying Start
Kylian Mbappe continued his incredible run of form, finding the net for the 10th straight match as France claimed a comfortable 3-0 win over Azerbaijan in their World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign.
The Real Madrid forward opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time, weaving through defenders before slotting a precise finish into the bottom corner. It was his 53rd international goal and 17th of the season, another reminder of his clinical finishing and composure under pressure.
He has scored in all but one of his 13 games this season for club and country, his consistency driving France’s dominance in qualifying and powering Real Madrid’s strong start in Spain.
Leading from the Front
Since taking the captain’s armband in 2023, Mbappe has evolved into a true leader. Despite a slight ankle concern before kickoff, he played with freedom and confidence, dictating the flow of France’s attack.
In the second half, he turned provider with a perfect cross for Adrien Rabiot, whose header made it 2-0 in the 69th minute. It was another example of his growing influence, not only a scorer but a creator who lifts the team around him.
With the result secured, he made way for Florian Thauvin in the closing stages. The returning winger, featuring for France for the first time since 2019, marked the occasion with a fine left-footed strike to complete a dominant performance.
France in Control
The victory keeps France top of their qualifying group, extending their unbeaten run and underlining their balance between experience and youth. Manager Didier Deschamps praised his players’ focus and discipline, noting how smoothly they’ve transitioned into a more dynamic attacking unit.
With 18 goals in four matches, Les Bleus are among Europe’s most productive sides. Their fluid movement and sharp finishing make them one of the early favourites to reach the 2026 finals with ease.
Europe’s Scoring Race Heats Up
Mbappe’s form places him among Europe’s top scorers this season, though he faces fierce competition from Erling Haaland and Harry Kane.
Haaland has struck 18 times in 11 games for Manchester City and Norway, including five in Norway’s 11-1 rout of Moldova. Kane, meanwhile, has matched that total with 18 goals in 10 appearances for Bayern Munich and England, leading the Bundesliga scoring charts.
Meanwhile, the Real Madrid forward leads the Champions League tally with five goals from two matches, showcasing his ability to perform when the stakes are highest. His blend of pace, precision, and intelligence keeps him in the mix for Europe’s top scorer honours.
Focus Turns to the Next Challenge
France will look to maintain their momentum in the next qualifier as they edge closer to securing their World Cup spot. Mbappe’s ankle issue will be monitored, but his movement and sharpness suggest no lasting concern. For Deschamps, managing the squad’s workload will be key as the season intensifies.
At 26, he is playing some of the best football of his career. Confident, composed, and commanding, Kylian Mbappe continues to set the standard for what modern greatness looks like.