Mbappé’s brace sends France to 2026 World Cup
Published: 14 November 2025, 2:53:23
France secured their place at 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 4–0 win over Ukraine at Parc des Princes, thanks to a brilliant performance from Kylian Mbappé, who struck twice on his former home ground.
With the victory, Les Bleus; finalists in the last two World Cups, confirmed qualification with a match to spare.
France dominated early but were kept at bay in the first half by Ukraine’s resilient defending and several excellent saves from Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin.
The breakthrough finally came in the 55th minute when Mbappé converted from the penalty spot.
The floodgates opened from there. Michael Olise doubled the lead in the 76th minute, putting France firmly on course for World Cup.
Mbappé added his second in the 83rd minute; his 55th international goal, before Liverpool newcomer Hugo Ekitike completed the rout in the 88th.
With this result, France became the second European nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
England were the first to book their ticket, claiming a 2–0 win over Serbia in their seventh group match on Friday, with goals from Bukayo Saka and Eze.
