FIFA World Cup 2026: France beat Senegal 3-1 as Mbappe surpasses Messi on all-time tournament scoring chart
New Jersey, June 17
Kylian Mbappe continued his record-breaking run with a brace as the France national football team defeated Senegal 3-1 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 clash, a result that saw French striker surpass Lionel Messi in the all-time World Cup scoring charts.
The result also confirmed Mbappe as France's all-time leading goalscorer, as the Real Madrid forward delivered once again in a tournament where Les Bleus are considered strong contenders following their 2018 triumph and 2022 final appearance.
Senegal matched France in a tightly contested first half, but the breakthrough came just after the hour mark when Michael Olise played a precise pass into Mbappe, who calmly finished to open the scoring.
Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola doubled the lead in the 79th minute, delicately lifting the ball over Edouard Mendy after coming off the bench, before Ibrahim Mbaye pulled one back for Senegal to reduce the deficit.
However, Mbappe produced the standout moment deep into stoppage time, dribbling forward and unleashing a stunning 30-yard strike into the top corner, sealing France's victory in style.
Mbappe's brace took him to 14 World Cup goals, moving him level with Germany's Gerd Muller and into third place in the all-time World Cup scoring list behind Miroslav Klose (16) and Brazil legend Ronaldo (15).
The French skipper began the match tied with football legend Pele on 12 World Cup goals, but his stunning performance lifted him above them into third place outright.
Mbappe's two goals also took his international tally to 58, making him France's highest-ever scorer, surpassing Olivier Giroud, who scored 57 goals.
The French star has now scored in three consecutive World Cups and remains one of the standout performers in the ongoing tournament.
He became only the second player, after England's Geoff Hurst in 1966, to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final during the 3-3 draw against Argentina in Qatar four years ago.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Mbappe is just phenomenal, yaar. That 30-yard strike was pure class. But Senegal put up a good fight, especially in the first half. Africa is producing some top teams now, and that's great for the game. Just wish we had more coverage of Indian football too!
Mbappe's consistency at such a young age is scary. He's already done things that most players can only dream of. France are real contenders again. Let's see if they can go all the way. Also, glad to see some recognition for Giroud's record being broken—he was underrated.
Great match to watch! Mbappe is just a beast, no two ways about it. But honestly, I think Senegal were a bit unlucky. They played well and matched France for large parts. The second goal by Barcola was a beauty too. Hope to see more African teams shine in this World Cup! 🏆
Mbappe is an absolute superstar. His pace, finishing, and composure are world-class. France's depth is incredible too—Barcola coming off the bench to score shows their squad quality. But Senegal deserve credit for fighting back. Football is truly becoming more global, and that's exciting. ⚽
Honestly, Mbappe is on another level. Surpassing Messi and Pele in World Cup goals is no joke. But I do wish the media would give more attention to teams like Senegal. They have so much talent and passion. France were just too clinical today, though. 🥲
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