EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AFP) — France coach Didier Deschamps hailed Kylian Mbappe as “extraordinary” after the captain scored twice in the team’s World Cup opener on Tuesday, becoming his country’s all-time leading scorer.
Mbappe's Record-Breaking Performance
Mbappe netted France’s first goal midway through the second half of a challenging match against Senegal at MetLife Stadium and sealed the 3-1 victory with a late strike. With 58 goals from 99 caps, he surpassed Olivier Giroud to claim the top spot in France’s scoring charts.
“There are still people out there who will criticise him but he is an extraordinary player. Not everything came off for him, but he can win games in one moment,” Deschamps said of the Real Madrid star.
Deschamps Praises Leadership
“As captain, he does a lot for the squad on and off the field even if some people think he is selfish,” Deschamps added. “I am really pleased for him. He didn’t score in the warm-up friendly games but to break the record at the World Cup gives it more impact.”
Bradley Barcola scored France’s second goal, while Ibrahim Mbaye pulled one back for Senegal in the Group I encounter.
France's Second-Half Surge
France struggled in the first half and were fortunate not to fall behind, but they dominated after the break thanks to their potent attack. Deschamps had been wary of Senegal and of overconfidence, but the victory sets up France well for the next round.
“It was good to win our first match against a very good Senegal team,” Deschamps said. “We had some difficulties, we were wasteful at times too, but with a bit more precision we could have created more chances.”
Olise's Impact
The coach highlighted Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise, who moved from the right wing into the middle in the second half. “The second half was much better after we moved Michael Olise into the middle, which tied everything together. The way he took the ball and his passing ability helped us find the strikers. The more he touches the ball, the better we are.”
France, World Cup winners in 1998 and 2018, next face Iraq in Philadelphia on Monday.
