Six countries from South America have qualified directly for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Another team will advance through a play-off. That means they have just one match left in their qualifying campaign, while most European countries, including former world champions France, have just started qualifying. The 2018 champions opened their qualifying campaign with a 2-0 win over Ukraine, with goals from Mbappe and Olis.
France faced Ukraine in Poland yesterday (Friday). After taking the lead in the first half through a goal by Michael Oliseh, Kylian Mbappe gave France a double lead in the second half. Despite putting up a good fight, Ukraine failed to score. The match-winning French team had about 56 percent of the ball and took 16 shots, of which they managed to put 6 on target. 3 of Ukraine’s 8 shots were on target.
Oliseh gave France the lead in the 10th minute through Barcola’s cross. Finding space, he found the address with a low left-footed shot. This was Oliseh’s fifth goal in total (for club and national team) this season. Then, the French forward from Bayern Munich broke through the Ukrainian defense and took a shot in the 18th minute. However, the Ukrainian goalkeeper saved it. Shortly after, Desiree Duerre’s shot also failed, and Mbappe took a shot that was off target.
After the break, substitute Ousmane Dembele had a chance, but this time the Ukraine goalkeeper stood in the way. Ukraine came close to equalizing in the 65th minute. However, Artem’s header eluded the French goalkeeper, but defender Ibrahima Konate cleared it with a counter-header. Shortly after, Ukraine suffered another misfortune, hitting a header against the post. Mbappe ended their chances of coming back into the match in the 82nd minute, which ensured France’s victory.
Mbappe took Aurélie Choumané’s extended pass, bypassed the opposition player’s obstacles, entered the box and sent the ball into the net with a low shot. Through this, Mbappe scored the joint second highest goal for France with 51 goals. Mbappe joined Thierry Henry. Olivier Giroud is at the top of the list with 57 goals.
FAQ
What was the final score of the France vs Ukraine World Cup 2026 qualifier?
France defeated Ukraine 2-0.
Who scored the goals for France in this match?
Michael Oliseh scored the first goal, and Kylian Mbappe scored the second.
Where was the match between France and Ukraine played?
The match was played in Poland.
How did Mbappe’s goal impact his career record?
Mbappe scored his 51st goal for France, equaling Thierry Henry’s tally as joint second-highest scorer.
How did France perform in terms of possession and shots?
France had around 56% possession, took 16 shots, and 6 were on target.
