Mbappe made history: It's not revenge for criticism

2026-06-17 08:28:00, Sport CNA

Kylian Mbappe continues to make history for French football. The forward was a key figure in France's 3-1 win over Senegal in their opening Group I match at the World Cup, scoring twice and setting a new record for his country.

In an evening that initially proved more complicated than expected for Didier Deschamps' team, Mbappe appeared at the most crucial moment. Senegal resisted for a long time and even created dangerous chances, but in the 66th minute the French striker found the way to the net after a built-up move by Olise.

It was a goal with double weight, as it brought Mbappe level with Olivier Giroud in France's all-time scoring list.

In the extra time, Mbappe sealed the match. The striker struck from distance and scored his second personal goal, making it 3-1. This achievement had historical significance, as it moved him to the top of the French national team's all-time scoring list with 58 goals, surpassing Olivier Giroud.

The new record once again confirms Mbappe's influence on France. At the age of 27, he has already built an extraordinary career with the "Les Bleus" jersey. This is the player's third World Cup. In 2018, he won the trophy in Russia, while in 2022 he reached the final, where France was defeated by Argentina. In total, he now counts 14 goals and 3 assists in 15 World Cup matches, figures that place him among the most important names in the history of this competition.

After the match, Mbappe preferred not to talk about a personal record as the main objective. The striker said that a victory in the first match does not guarantee anything in such a long tournament. He stressed that it is important to start the competition well, but recalled that many teams have encountered difficulties in the first matches.

Mbappe also spoke about the criticism he has received throughout his career, stating that he does not play to respond to critics, but to write his history with France. According to him, the main objective remains to help the team reach the final and fight to win the World Cup.

"Honestly, I don't think we have anything yet, but it's always important to start a competition well. It gives you a little more peace of mind, no matter how calm a World Cup can be. We saw the difficulties of other teams. Today was not an easy match, but we know we can make the difference at any moment.

"There is no revenge against those who criticize me. If I had to play for them and silence them, I would have to stay on the field until I was 80. I play to make history and for my country, and to make sure my team reaches the final and wins the World Cup. Now we have to keep calm. We will have to win against Iraq to qualify," he declared.