Kylian Mbappe marked his 100th international appearance by scoring two goals, with Ousmane Dembele adding a third, as France defeated Iraq 3-0 to advance to the Round of 32 with a game in hand. Mbappe has now scored multiple goals in six FIFA World Cup matches, surpassing all other players in tournament history. His total of four goals in the current tournament places him just behind Lionel Messi in the Golden Boot standings.
In the match, Mbappe opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a powerful left-footed shot from 20 yards, assisted by Michael Olise. Dembele capitalized on a defensive error to score the second goal. Mbappe’s 16th World Cup goal moved him into joint second place with Miroslav Klose, just two goals behind Messi’s record of 17.
Dembele later scored his first World Cup goal, courtesy of an assist from Olise. France, with their formidable attack, now look forward to a crucial match against Norway, assured of progressing to the knockout stage. Mbappe’s personal rivalry with Messi for the Golden Boot and all-time World Cup scoring record continues.
Mbappe is also nearing Didier Deschamps’ record of 103 caps for France, currently holding 100 caps. If France advances further in the World Cup, Mbappe could equal this milestone in the Round of 16.
