France made it look easy in their second Group I match, beating Iraq 3-0 in a dominant performance. Kylian Mbappé was the star of the show, scoring two goals and coming agonizingly close to a hat-trick.
A Fast Start from France
France didn’t waste any time. In the 13th minute, Mbappé picked up the ball outside the box and unleashed a bullet shot that flew straight into the net. It was the kind of goal that only he can score — pure power and precision.
Iraq had no answer for it.
Iraq Gift France a Second Goal
The second goal came in the 53rd minute, and Iraq only had themselves to blame. A terrible misplaced pass from an Iraqi player went straight to Ousmane Dembélé, who didn’t hesitate — he slipped it through to Mbappé, and he finished coolly for his second of the night.
Two goals. Two chances. Two goals taken.
Dembélé Gets on the Scoresheet
France made it three in the 65th minute through Ousmane Dembélé. Michael Olise was the architect, delivering a great assist that Dembélé swept home with confidence. At 3-0, the game was well and truly over.
Mbappé So Close to a Hat-Trick
With the match already won, Mbappé had one more chance in the 89th minute. He got the ball, turned on the pace, and burst past the Iraqi defenders. But when it came to the finish, he fired wide.
No hat-trick this time — but still a brilliant night for the Frenchman.
The Record Chase Begins
With 16 World Cup goals, Mbappé has now tied Miroslav Klose’s record — a number many thought would stand forever.
But the bigger story? Lionel Messi has already moved to the top of the all-time list with 18 goals, after scoring a brace against Austria earlier in the tournament.
Mbappé is just two behind. And France still have plenty of matches to play.
If he keeps this form going, the all-time FIFA World Cup scoring record could belong to Mbappé before this tournament is over.
Also Read: Kylian Mbappé Has One World Cup Winner’s Medal — But His Record in Finals Is the Most Surprising Stat in World Football
I’m a football writer, covering top leagues like the Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, and Ligue 1. I write about match analysis, football news, tactics, and major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup, delivering clear, engaging insights for fans.
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