‘Champion’s Curse’ Is Over: Mbappe’s brace put France in round of 16

Kylian Mbappé picks up where he left off in Russia in 2018 as he continues his spectacular form in his World Cup campaign in Qatar. At Stadium 974, Mbappe’s brace helps France defeat Denmark. In just two games, he has already scored three goals and provided one assist, so the golden boot is clearly in his sights. With seven goals so far, Mbappe has tied Pele’s record for most World Cup goals scored before the age of 24. He still has the rest of the tournament to surpass Pele’s mark.

France won both of their group D matches, becoming the first team to qualify for the knockout round of the 2022 World Cup and the first World Cup holders to advance past the group stage in the previous four editions.

Both teams plodded through the opening minutes of the game, enjoying their positions but failing to create any clear chances. With their quick feet, Mbappe and Dembele both look dangerous in both wings.

In the 21st minute, a dangerous cross from Ousmane Dembélé was headed by Adrien Rabiot and was pushed away by Kasper Schmeichel. Hugo Lloris was unconcerned by Andreas Cornelius’ tight-angle shot to the near post that presented Denmark with its first opportunity after 36 minutes. France continued to press, but Kylian Mbappé and Olivier Giroud missed opportunities. Both teams failed to score any goals in the first half.

The second half started with French attacks and eventually pushed them into their opener. Wonderfully worked counter-attacking football by Mbappe playing a little one-two with Theo Hernández guiding the ball to the Danish net. Denmark responded well and showed their power of recovery.

Andreas Christensen with a bullet header from a corner—no chance for Hugo Lloris. Either team pushed for a winner in the last quarter hour and created great chances on both ends but it was France who capitalized it. Antoine Griezmann’s wonderful cross finds Mbappe who diverted the ball into the net. France earned the crucial 3 points, and they will face Tunisia in the final group-stage match, while on the other hand, Denmark will face the Socceroos.