Mbappé Scores Twice as France Dominates Iraq 3-0, Secures Knockout Berth

Kylian Mbappé scored twice to move into a tie for second on the all-time World Cup goals list, leading France to a 3-0 victory over Iraq on Monday and securing a place in the knockout stage. The match, played at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, was interrupted by a severe thunderstorm that caused a delay of over two hours at halftime.

Mbappé opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a left-footed strike from about 20 yards, giving France a 1-0 lead. The match was then halted at halftime as heavy rain and lightning swept through the area, prompting tournament officials to direct spectators to covered areas. Play resumed after more than two hours, following strict safety protocols that mandate a stoppage if lightning is detected within 13 kilometers of the stadium.

Shortly after the resumption, Mbappé scored his second goal in the 54th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error by Iraq. Defender Zaid Tahseen played a poor pass toward goalkeeper Ahmed Basil, which Ousmane Dembélé intercepted and laid off to Mbappé, who tapped the ball in with his right foot. Dembélé added a third goal in the 66th minute, putting the result beyond doubt.

Mbappé’s brace brought his career World Cup total to 16 goals, tying him with Germany’s Miroslav Klose for second place. The record now belongs to Lionel Messi, who earlier on Monday scored twice for Argentina to reach 18 goals. Mbappé, who now has 59 international goals, is France’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing Olivier Giroud.

The victory marked France’s second win in two group matches, guaranteeing progression to the round of 16. The team will face Norway in their final group-stage game on June 26, while Iraq will take on Senegal. Both matches are scheduled for 7:00 p.m. GMT.