Kylian Mbappe became France’s all-time leading scorer after netting twice in Les Bleus’ 3-1 victory over Senegal in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday.
The Real Madrid forward surpassed Olivier Giroud’s record by taking his international tally to 58 goals, helping France begin their campaign with a commanding win in Group D.
France Start World Cup With Win
France made a strong start to their quest for a third World Cup title with a 3-1 victory over Senegal.
Mbappe played a decisive role, scoring twice as Didier Deschamps’ side secured all three points against the African champions. Senegal managed to pull a goal back during the contest, but France maintained control and sealed a comfortable victory.
The result puts France in a strong position ahead of their remaining group-stage fixtures against Iraq and Norway.
Mbappe Breaks Historic Record
Mbappe reached the milestone in just 99 appearances for France, underlining his remarkable consistency since making his international debut.
His brace against Senegal also moved him closer to another major landmark. The France captain now has 14 World Cup goals, just two behind Germany legend Miroslav Klose’s all-time tournament record of 16.
Giroud Praises Successor
Former France striker Olivier Giroud, who previously held the scoring record, congratulated Mbappe on the achievement.
“Congratulations Kylian. I’m happy for him,” Giroud said while working as a pundit during France’s World Cup opener.
“It makes sense, it was expected. He will beat every single record — the number of caps and goals. I think he can easily reach 100 goals and maybe beat Miroslav Klose’s World Cup record.”
Giroud also praised Mbappe’s leadership qualities and influence within the national team.
“He is a good team-mate, he is an incredible talent and I think he is a proper leader on and off the pitch,” he added.
France Greatness Debate
French football journalist Julien Laurens believes Mbappe is on course to become the greatest player in France’s history.
According to Laurens, legends Zinedine Zidane and Michel Platini still rank above Mbappe for now, but he expects the World Cup winner to eventually surpass them.
“There is still a lot more to come from him,” Laurens said.
“It is not just for his goals, but his leadership now as captain, winning the World Cup in 2018 and scoring a hat-trick in the 2022 final.”
More Records in Sight
Mbappe has already established himself as one of the most successful players of his generation, winning the World Cup in 2018 and starring in France’s run to the 2022 final.
With another World Cup campaign underway and several major tournaments still ahead of him, the forward appears well positioned to add to his record tally.
At his current rate, he could become the first French player to reach 100 international goals while also challenging Klose’s long-standing World Cup scoring record.
For now, Mbappe can celebrate another historic achievement as France’s greatest goalscorer while helping France begin their World Cup campaign in style.
