FIFA World Cup 2026: Mbappe reaches 20 WC goals, joins Messi atop golden boot race
Boston, July 10
France captain Kylian Mbappe continued his sensational runs in the ongoing FIFA World Cup, as he scored the opening goal for his side against Morocco in their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final in Boston on Thursday before Ousmane Dembele doubled the lead to send France into the final four of the World Cup.
The goal helped Mbappe reach a remarkable milestone in his World Cup career. The France captain took his tally to 20 FIFA World Cup goals across the 2018, 2022 and 2026 editions, moving within one goal of Lionel Messi's all-time tournament record of 21.
This was Mbappe's eighth goal of the ongoing edition. Mbappe's eighth goal of the 2026 World Cup also saw him join Argentina's Messi at the top of the Golden Boot race.
Mbappe also became the first player in France's history to be directly involved in 100 international goals, achieving the milestone with 64 goals and 36 assists for Les Bleus.
France reaches its 3rd consecutive World Cup semifinal. France grew into the contest and created the better openings before the interval. Mbappe came close to breaking the deadlock and also missed a penalty opportunity, leaving the score level at half-time.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 60th minute when Mbappe produced a brilliant finish from inside the box, curling the ball beyond Yassine Bounou after a clever assist from Desire Doue to put France ahead.
The result ends Morocco's impressive run after another historic World Cup campaign, while France move one step closer to the title.
The victory sets up France's semi-final clash against either Spain or Belgium.
— ANI
Reader Comments
France reaching third consecutive semifinal is no joke - that's consistency! But I feel bad for Morocco, they played so well throughout the tournament. Brilliant campaign from them, they should be proud. Also, that penalty miss by Mbappe almost changed the game's momentum, shows even the best have off moments.
If Mbappe keeps this pace, he'll easily surpass Messi's record and maybe even become the all-time World Cup goalscorer. 64 goals and 36 assists for France at just 27 is insane! But let's also give credit to Dembélé and the French defense - they've been solid all tournament.
One thing I've noticed: Mbappe missing that penalty and then scoring the crucial goal anyway - that's mental strength. Reminds me of how Indian players need to develop that killer instinct in big matches. We need more exposure to this level of football.
The Golden Boot race between Mbappe and Messi is going to be epic! Two legends at the peak of their powers. I'm rooting for Messi to hold onto the record but Mbappe is coming hard. France vs Spain/Belgium semi will be fire! 🔥
Honestly, I think the French team is just too stacked - Mbappe, Dembélé, Griezmann, Tchouaméni... It's like they have two World-class players for every position. Morocco gave them a tough fight though. If only they had converted their chances in the first half! 🏆