Kylian Mbappe scored twice, including an audacious ‘Panenka’ penalty, as France secured their place at the 2026 World Cup with a dominant 4-0 qualifying victory against Ukraine at the Stade de France.
The hosts broke a halftime deadlock in a rampant second period, which also saw Michael Olise score and substitute Hugo Ekitike net his first goal for his country.
After a tense and goalless first half, the match turned when France was awarded a penalty after Olise was fouled inside the box. Mbappe, captaining the side, stepped up and calmly chipped the spot-kick down the middle as goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin dived prematurely.
The breakthrough came just moments after Ukraine had a strong penalty appeal of their own dismissed. Following a challenge by defender Dayot Upamecano, referee Slavko Vincic was advised by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) to review the play on the pitch-side monitor but ultimately opted to stand by his original decision of no foul.
France capitalized on the shift in momentum and soon doubled their lead when Bayern Munich’s Olise found the net with a powerful strike.
Mbappe secured his brace in the closing stages, scoring from close range. The goal marked a significant milestone for the Real Madrid forward: it was the 400th goal of his professional career and his 55th for France, moving him just two goals behind Olivier Giroud’s all-time national team record of 57.
With two minutes remaining, Mbappe turned provider, selflessly setting up Ekitike, who marked his appearance with his first senior international goal, sealing the comprehensive 4-0 win with a clinical finish through the goalkeeper’s legs.
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