Mbappé's surge fuels Golden Boot race as France eyes semi

Under the bright lights of Boston’s TD Garden, Kylian Mbappé darted into the box and unleashed a decisive strike that sent the French crowd into a roar. The goal and his subsequent assist secured Les Bleus a semi‑final against Morocco, keeping France’s World Cup dream alive and sharpening his chase of Lionel Messi for the Golden Boot. The match remained deadlocked at 0‑0 at half‑time, a stalemate that included a missed penalty effort from the Real Madrid man before the break. Mbappé’s performance came after that goalless first half, underscoring his pivotal role in the tournament. His involvement turned the tide as the French side sought to stay in contention. Mbappé then swung into action, as he often does, to change the game. In the 60th minute the 27‑year‑old curled a fantastic effort from outside the box to break the deadlock. Six minutes later he turned provider, setting up Ousmane Dembélé for France’s second goal.

Mbappé’s redemption mirrors Messi as France eyes World Cup semi‑final

With that strike Mbappé became the second man in World Cup history to reach 20 goals, sitting just one behind Lionel Messi as both sit on eight goals this summer in the Golden Boot race. According to Opta, Mbappé is the only player on record since 1966 to register at least 10 goal involvements in two different tournaments (2022, 2026). He also became the first player to be involved in 100 goals for France, tallying 64 goals and 36 assists. Though Messi may be the GOAT for many, Mbappé is fast‑becoming the tournament’s greatest‑ever performer, sparking endless debate over modern legends. Potential injury concerns have emerged after Mbappé picked up a knock, which could threaten his push for the Golden Boot crown, and France will monitor his fitness ahead of the next challenge.

Mbappé blames confusion for missed penalty after France win

Next up, Les Bleus face Morocco in the semi‑final in Boston, a match that will decide whether France can continue its World Cup journey. Mbappé’s influence will be crucial if France hopes to reach the final.