'I have to play until I'm 80' - Kylian Mbappé responds to criticism after leading France to victory over Senegal at the World Cup
Kylian Mbappé led the French team to a 3-1 victory over Senegal in their opening match at the 2026 World Cup, equaling and then surpassing Olivier Giroud's scoring record.
The French team got off to an impressive start at the 2026 World Cup with a 3-1 win over Senegal in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Tuesday. Kylian Mbappé scored the opening goal in the 60th minute, helping him equal Olivier Giroud's all-time scoring record of 57 goals for the national team.
After coming on as a substitute, Bradley Barcola doubled France's lead, but Ibrahim Mbaye reduced the score for Senegal. However, Mbappé quickly scored another goal, increasing the score to 3-1 and surpassing Giroud's achievement.
When interviewed by M6 about whether his performance was a reaction and revenge to the criticism he received, Kylian Mbappé denied these claims. "No, it's not about revenge. If I started playing just to prove all my critics wrong and to keep them quiet, then I think I would have to play until I'm 80 years old," said the Real Madrid player, adding that he was only motivated by the will to make his mark in France's history and help his team reach the final and win the World Cup.
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