Kylian Mbappé struck twice — including a cheeky Panenka — while Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike netted his first goal for France as Les Bleus booked their place at the 2026 World Cup with an emphatic win over Ukraine.
After a tight, goalless opening 45 minutes, France exploded into life in the second half. The breakthrough came when Michael Olise was brought down in the box, prompting the referee to point to the spot.
Mbappé stepped up and coolly chipped his penalty straight down the middle as Anatoliy Trubin dived away.
Ukraine had reason to feel frustrated, having moments earlier seen their own penalty hopes dashed. Dayot Upamecano’s challenge in the French area was reviewed on the monitor, but referee Slavko Vincic stuck with his initial decision to wave play on.
France pushed on after taking the lead. Mbappé twice went close to adding another before Olise rifled home to give the hosts breathing room.
Mbappé eventually doubled his tally late on, tapping in from close range for the 400th goal of his career and his 55th for France — moving him within two of Olivier Giroud’s all-time national record.
With the game wrapped up, Mbappé turned provider, unselfishly squaring for Hugo Ekitike to slide a composed finish through the goalkeeper’s legs, sealing the Liverpool striker’s first goal for his country and France’s place at the World Cup.
