Mbappé scores in 10th-straight as France cruise
Kylian Mbappé extended his remarkable scoring run by netting a decisive goal as France secured a 3-0 victory over Azerbaijan in their World Cup qualifying match at Parc des Princes, maintaining their perfect start to Group D.
Mbappé, playing for Real Madrid, opened the scoring in the second minute of first-half stoppage time with a composed finish, marking his 17th goal across 13 appearances this season for club and country. This goal also brought his total to 53 goals for the French national team, placing him just four shy of Olivier Giroud’s all-time record of 57 goals. The strike represented Mbappé’s career-best streak of scoring in 10 consecutive matches.
France doubled the lead in the 69th minute through Adrien Rabiot, who converted a lofted cross from Mbappé with a precise header. Substitute Florian Thauvin sealed the win with a late goal six minutes from full time, rounding off a dominant performance by the 2022 World Cup runners-up.
Ahead of the match, coach Didier Deschamps emphasized caution against the 124th-ranked Azerbaijani side despite France’s superior possession and group standing. Mbappé, who had missed scoring in only one game this season, showcased his individual skill with a mazy dribble past multiple defenders before finishing neatly into the bottom corner.
This victory keeps France at the summit of Group D with nine points from three games, extending their lead over Ukraine, Iceland, and Azerbaijan. The result further consolidates France’s path towards qualification for the next World Cup and reinforces Mbappé’s status as a vital offensive asset, combining pace, composure, and clinical finishing that perfectly aligns with Deschamps’ tactical setup.
For Mbappé, the consistent scoring streak enhances his reputation as one of world football’s most prolific forwards, while France’s blend of emerging talents and experienced campaigners continues to underpin their ambitions on the international stage.