Kylian Mbappe Equals Thierry Henry’s Goal Record for France

Kylian Mbappe made headlines on March 27, 2024, by equalling Thierry Henry’s record of 51 international goals for France during a World Cup qualifying match against Ukraine. The 26-year-old forward, playing for Real Madrid, scored a stunning solo goal in the 82nd minute, securing a 2-0 victory for Les Bleus.

This milestone places Mbappe just six goals shy of Olivier Giroud’s all-time French record of 57. Reflecting on his achievement, he described it as “crazy” and expressed a desire to surpass Henry. “Big up to Titi [Henry], but now I want to surpass him,” Mbappe stated. “It’s an honour to equal a player like Henry, everyone knows what he means to us French people, even more so to strikers. He’s someone who paved the way, and I have a lot of respect and admiration for him.”

Historic Context and Personal Milestones

Both players have made significant contributions to French football. Henry, a key figure in France’s 1998 World Cup victory, was just 20 when he helped lift the trophy on home soil. Mbappe, at 19, followed in his footsteps by playing a crucial role in France’s 2018 World Cup triumph in Russia.

France entered the 2022 World Cup in Qatar as defending champions, advancing to the final where they faced Argentina. Despite Mbappe’s remarkable hat-trick in that match, which drove the game to penalties, France ultimately fell short.

With Giroud’s retirement from international football following France’s European Championship semi-final loss to Spain in 2022, Mbappe appears well-positioned to break the all-time scoring record. He acknowledged the approaching milestone but emphasized his focus on team success: “The record is getting closer, but it’s not something I think about. I don’t know if it’s because I think I can beat it, or because I think there are more important things.”

A Match of Significance

The match against Ukraine featured a strong performance from the French team, beginning with an opening goal from Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise in the 10th minute. Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembele was subbed in at half-time but left the field injured in the 81st minute. Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike made his debut as Dembele’s replacement.

Mbappe’s goal not only highlights his individual talent but also reinforces his status as a crucial player for France as they continue their quest for World Cup qualification. With his sights set on surpassing Henry, fans will be eagerly watching his journey in the coming matches.