FIFA World Cup: Mbappe scores 20th goal, nears Messi's all-time record
Synopsis
Kylian Mbappe scored his 20th FIFA World Cup goal, moving within one of Lionel Messi's record, as France defeated Morocco to reach their 3rd consecutive World Cup semi-final. Mbappe now has 8 goals in the 2026 tournament, tying Messi.
Mbappe, Dembele Fire France Into World Cup Semi-Finals
France captain Kylian Mbappe continued his sensational runs in the ongoing FIFA World Cup, as he scored the opening goal for his side against Morocco in their FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final in Boston on Thursday before Ousmane Dembele doubled the lead to send France into the final four of the World Cup.
Mbappe's Record-Breaking Night
The goal helped Mbappe reach a remarkable milestone in his World Cup career. The France captain took his tally to 20 FIFA World Cup goals across the 2018, 2022 and 2026 editions, moving within one goal of Lionel Messi's all-time tournament record of 21. This was Mbappe's eighth goal of the ongoing edition. Mbappe's eighth goal of the 2026 World Cup also saw him join Argentina's Messi at the top of the Golden Boot race. Mbappe also became the first player in France's history to be directly involved in 100 international goals, achieving the milestone with 64 goals and 36 assists for Les Bleus.
How the Match Unfolded
France reaches its 3rd consecutive World Cup semifinal. France grew into the contest and created the better openings before the interval. Mbappe came close to breaking the deadlock and also missed a penalty opportunity, leaving the score level at half-time.
The Decisive Goal
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 60th minute when Mbappe produced a brilliant finish from inside the box, curling the ball beyond Yassine Bounou after a clever assist from Desire Doue to put France ahead.
The result ends Morocco's impressive run after another historic World Cup campaign, while France move one step closer to the title. The victory sets up France's semi-final clash against either Spain or Belgium.
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