Kylian Mbappe made history, becoming France's all-time top scorer in 3-1 World Cup opener win over Senegal Tuesday. Real Madrid star netted twice,lifting his World Cup goals to 14, just two short of Miroslav Klose's record .
First half was rough for France,but the game changed after the break . Mbappe broke through in 66th minute,finishing a slick pass from Michael Olise. Minutes later,Bradley Barcola scored off the bench,widening the gap. Senegal's Ibrahim Mbaye pulled one back in stoppage time, but Mbappe's long-range shot in 96th minute sealed it .
Big night for Mbappe, now with 58 goals for France, surpassing legends like Pele and Lionel Messi. Tied now with Gerd Muller on World Cup scoring list,trailing only Klose and Ronaldo at 15 goals .
Coach Didier Deschamps shifted Olise from right wing to central role — crucial move revitalizing French attack. But Deschamps stays cautious, recalling France's 2002 World Cup opener loss to Senegal, exiting early.
In front of 80,545 fans, Senegal started strong. Nicolas Jackson hit post,Ismaila Sarr missed golden chance before halftime. France's halftime tweaks worked . Olise and Ousmane Dembele switched, Olise exploited Senegal's defense better .
France's momentum surged post-break. No penalty for foul on Mbappe,but team pressed . Olise's creativity key, assisting Mbappe's first goal. Barcola's late goal highlighted France's depth.
France,tournament favorites,look to build on win. Next up: Iraq, then Norway led by Erling Haaland. Deschamps, stepping down after tournament,wants squad grounded despite talent, past success.
Senegal faced hurdles, first competitive match since Africa Cup of Nations final in January. Led by veteran Sadio Mane,showed promise but fell short against strong France .
Mbappe's show reinforced his status as France's key player,reigniting World Cup legacy. Scored in 2018 and 2022 finals. With each match… how far can he go in this remarkable career?
