France secured a spot in the World Cup by defeating Ukraine.
After a surprisingly goalless first half, the hosts exploded into action after the break. The floodgates opened when Michael Olise was brought down inside the box, earning France a crucial spot-kick. Stepping up to the mark, Real Madrid's prolific striker, Mbappe, coolly chipped the ball straight down the middle, outfoxing goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin who had already committed to a dive.
However, Ukraine might have felt a tad hard done by, as they believed they deserved a penalty just moments earlier. Despite VAR prompting referee Slavko Vincic to review Dayot Upamecano's challenge in the box, he ultimately upheld his initial decision to wave play on.
Mbappe continued to threaten, narrowly missing out on another goal twice, before Michael Olise found the back of the net himself, allowing France to truly relax. In the final stages, Mbappe sealed his brace with a close-range finish. This monumental goal wasn't just his second of the game, but also the 400th of his incredible career, bringing his international tally for France to 55 – just two shy of Olivier Giroud's all-time record of 57.
And with only two minutes left on the clock, Mbappe turned provider, unselfishly setting up Ekitike. The young forward slotted home with a clinical finish through the goalkeeper's legs, marking a memorable debut goal for France.
