The French national team secured their ticket to the 2026 World Cup with a commanding victory over Ukraine, showcasing their class and depth in a decisive performance. Spearheaded by a brilliant double from star striker Kylian Mbappé, the home side navigated a tense start before unleashing their attacking power to claim a comfortable win, officially guaranteeing them the top spot in Group D and a place in the biggest football festival next summer.
First Half Frustration Amidst French Dominance
Right from the opening whistle, the French team, Les Bleus, proactively pushed their squad forward, deploying their signature short passing combinations to stretch and test the Ukrainian defense. Early pressure almost yielded results when Michael Olise created a dangerous opportunity, only to be denied by the excellent reflexes of Ukrainian goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin. France continued to dominate possession, boasting a control rate of up to 79%, constantly earning corner kicks and maintaining high pressure. Ukraine, meanwhile, was forced to defend deep, looking to relieve pressure and find openings through hopeful long balls.
The tension peaked in the 17th minute when Mbappé fired a powerful long-range shot, once again forcing Trubin to demonstrate his talent with a fine save. Despite creating numerous clear-cut chances and maintaining overwhelming control, the French attack could not find the breakthrough in the first half. The visitors managed to slow down the pace, notably through tactical interruptions due to collisions, and their disciplined organization held the score at 0-0 heading into the break.
Mbappé’s Penalty Breaks the Deadlock
The second half saw Coach Didier Deschamps’ men increase the intensity, and the pressure finally began to pay dividends. The early minutes of the half were marred by controversy. In the 54th minute, an incident involving Upamecano in the box led to a penalty request from Ukraine, but VAR quickly confirmed that no foul had occurred.
However, almost immediately after, the tide turned decisively. Ukrainian defender Taras Mykhavko committed a clear mistake, fouling a French player inside the 16m50 area, resulting in a penalty awarded to France. Kylian Mbappé stepped up with characteristic composure and coolly converted the spot-kick in the 55th minute, finally opening the score 1-0 and igniting the home crowd.
Attacking Floodgates Open as France Secures Qualification
Following the opening goal, Ukraine’s resistance visibly weakened, allowing France to exploit the growing gaps in the visitors' defense. The French team, masters of transition, capitalized ruthlessly on their superior pace and skill.
The second goal arrived in the 76th minute, showcasing the quality of the French midfield and attack. N'Golo Kanté delivered a sharp, incisive pass that sliced through the Ukrainian defence, finding Michael Olise. Olise finished the move delicately, calmly slotting the ball home to double the lead to 2-0.
The night then turned into a personal exhibition for the French captain. Mbappé scored his second goal of the night in the 83rd minute, further extending the lead and cementing his dominant performance. The scoring was sealed in the 88th minute when Mbappé turned provider, registering an assist for substitute Hugo Ekitike to tap in and complete the resounding 4-0 victory.
