Mbappé's brace against Senegal moves him level with Gerd Müller in World Cup history

Kylian Mbappé scored twice in France’s 3-1 victory over Senegal on Tuesday to reach 14 World Cup goals, drawing level with Germany legend Gerd Müller for the third-highest tally in tournament history and moving past both Lionel Messi and Pelé in the process.

The France forward broke the deadlock in the 66th minute after Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy had repeatedly denied him earlier in the match. Mbappé then sealed the win with a stunning long-range effort in the fifth minute of stoppage time, his second of the afternoon and his most emphatic statement yet of his place among the game’s all-time greats.

Bradley Barcola scored France’s other goal in what was a commanding Group stage opener for the co-favourites, who went into the tournament alongside Spain as joint top picks.

The brace also carried personal significance beyond the record books: Mbappé overtook Olivier Giroud to become France’s all-time leading scorer in international football.

Mbappé was central to France’s 2018 World Cup triumph and was awarded the Silver Ball as the tournament’s second-best player when France reached the final in 2022. He arrives at this edition in strong form, having scored 25 goals for Real Madrid in the 2024-25 club season.

France lined up with Désiré Doué and reigning Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé alongside Mbappé in attack, giving the side a formidable front line as they begin their bid for a second World Cup title in eight years.