Mbappe’s World Cup Achievements
Kylian Mbappe has continued to set new records at the World Cup, notably in France‘s 2-0 quarter-final victory against Morocco in Boston. Despite an early penalty miss, his second-half goal brought him level with Lionel Messi for the most non-penalty goals in the tournament’s history. This performance further cemented his status as a key player for France.
Mbappe’s contributions in North America have seen him break or equal several significant records. He became France’s all-time leading goal scorer, surpassing Olivier Giroud. The striker now has 64 goals for the French national team, while Giroud stands at 57. Thierry Henry is third with 51 goals, and Antoine Griezmann is fourth with 44 goals.
Furthermore, Mbappe is now France’s record goal scorer at the World Cup. His strike against Senegal marked his 14th World Cup goal, exceeding Just Fontaine‘s previous record of 13 goals, all scored in the 1958 World Cup. Since then, he has added goals, extending his lead.
His goal against Morocco also brought his total World Cup goals to 20, placing him just one behind Messi on the all-time list. His overall tally now stands at 20 in as many World Cup matches.
Goal Contributions and Appearances
Mbappe’s assist for Ousmane Dembele‘s goal against Morocco established another record. He became the first player to achieve 11 direct goal contributions in two different World Cups. This feat includes his performance at the Qatar World Cup 2022, where he registered eight goals and two assists. He has since improved upon these figures in the current tournament, becoming the first player since records began in 1966 to achieve 10 or more contributions in two separate tournaments.
In terms of appearances, Mbappe is now a joint record holder for France at World Cup finals, matching Hugo Lloris with appearances. He is also the youngest player to reach this milestone.
The match against Morocco saw Mbappe miss a penalty early on, which was saved by Morocco’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. Bounou had a strong performance, making several saves throughout the game. Despite this, Mbappe’s curled shot from the edge of the box ultimately broke the deadlock.
Following his goal, Mbappe also provided an assist for Dembele, who scored France’s second goal. This secured a 2-0 victory for France, propelling them towards a potential third consecutive final appearance. Mbappe was seen with an ice pack on his right foot after the match, though this appeared to be a precautionary measure.
Morocco, who were semi-finalists in 2022, became the first team from Africa to reach back-to-back quarter-finals. However, France’s performance, led by Mbappe, proved decisive.
France’s Path to the Semi-Finals
The quarter-final match against Morocco was a repeat of the 2022 semi-final, with France once again securing a 2-0 victory. Morocco’s defensive strategy, which involved congesting the midfield, aimed to contain players like Michael Olise. However, France’s offensive pressure was evident, with 13 shots before Morocco registered their first.
Morocco’s goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou, made notable saves against Mbappe’s early shot and Dayot Upamecano‘s header. He also managed to tip Lucas Digne‘s shot onto the bar just before half-time. Despite Bounou’s efforts, Mbappe’s goal and subsequent assist for Dembele sealed France’s progression.
The match saw a penalty awarded to France after Noussair Mazraoui tripped Mbappe. Mbappe’s subsequent penalty attempt was saved by Bounou. France’s victory in Boston moves them closer to the final.
The competition has been marked by a perceived rivalry between Mbappe and Messi for individual accolades such as the Golden Ball and Golden Boot, as well as the World Cup trophy itself. France will play their semi-final match on Bastille Day.
Source: aljazeera.com