Kylian Mbappe etched his name into French football history on Tuesday, surpassing Olivier Giroud to become Les Bleus' all-time leading scorer as France defeated Senegal 3-1 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I opener at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, in front of 80,545 fans.

The Real Madrid forward moved onto 58 international goals, breaking Giroud's record of 57, with a breathtaking brace that sealed the result and set the tone for France's World Cup campaign.

A record-breaking double

Mbappe drew level with Giroud's record midway through the second half, converting a first-time finish from a defence-splitting pass by Michael Olise to make it 2-0. It was a clinical, composed finish worthy of the occasion.

Then, in stoppage time, he surpassed the record in spectacular fashion — unleashing a stunning long-range effort that left the goalkeeper with no chance and sent the French end of MetLife Stadium into delirium.

Senegal's response and Barcola's contribution

Bradley Barcola had opened France's account with a delicate finish earlier in the match, giving Les Bleus a platform from which Mbappe could take centre stage. Senegal did briefly threaten a comeback when substitute Ibrahim Mbaye — a young forward widely touted as the next Mbappe — pulled one back with a composed finish to make it 2-1.

The goal gave Senegal hope, but Mbappe's record-breaking strike arrived less than two minutes later to extinguish any possibility of a Teranga Lions revival.

Controversy over denied penalty

The match was not without its contentious moments. Mbappe was denied what many felt was a clear penalty following a challenge from Sadio Mane, with referee Alireza Faghani opting to stick with his on-field decision after reviewing the incident at the monitor. The call drew strong reactions, though it ultimately did not affect the outcome.

France, now three points clear at the top of Group I, will look to build on this commanding opening performance as the FIFA World Cup 2026 continues.