World Cup 2026: Mbappe helps France qualify; Haaland powers Norway
What's the story
Kylian Mbappe was the star of the show as France thrashed Ukraine 4-0 on Matchday 5 to secure their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. France, placed in Group D, top the 4-team standings with 13 points. Mbappe scored a brace as Michael Olise and Hugo Ekitike also got on the scoresheet. On the other hand, Erling Haaland's brace helped Norway hammer Estonia 4-1. Norway have virtually sealed World Cup qualification for their first World Cup in 28 years.
Opener
Mbappe opens the scoring for France
The first half of the match ended in a stalemate. However, France came alive in the second half with a flurry of goals. The scoring was opened by Mbappe, who converted a penalty kick after Olise was fouled inside the box. His chipped shot went right down the middle as Ukrainian goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin dived to his left. Just moments before France's penalty, Ukraine thought they had one when Dayot Upamecano challenged a player inside the box. However, after consulting with the video assistant referee (VAR), referee Slavko Vincic decided against awarding it.
Goals
France add three more goals
Olise scored his side's 2nd goal in the 76th minute with N'Golo Kante making the assist. In the 83rd minute, Mbappe scored his second goal of the match from close range, bringing his international tally to 55. With two minutes left on the clock, Mbappe assisted Ekitike for a clinical finish through Trubin's legs, marking the Liverpool forward's first international goal.
Mbappe
Mbappe completes 400 career goals
Mbappe scored his 399th and 400th senior career goals in this contest. In addition to 55 goals for France, the Real Madrid ace has netted 345 goals at club level. In 60 matches for AS Monaco, Mbapped recorded 27 goals. He scored 235 goals next for Paris Saint-Germain in 264 appearances. For his current club Real, he has managed 62 goals in 75 appearances.
Norway
Norway are all but through to the World Cup
Norway gained a World Cup berth for the 1st time in 28 years. Doubles from Haaland and Alexander Sorloth sealed a comfortable win against Estonia. This was Norway's 7th win out of seven in qualifying. This makes them sit top of Group I which has 5 teams. Norway are three points ahead of Italy in second place and 17 goals better off. If Norway win or draw their final game they are through. Even if they lose, they are through as Italy cannot surpass Norway's goal difference.
Information
Haaland races to 53 goals for Norway
Haaland now owns 53 goals for Norway from just 47 matches in all competitions. The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign has seen Haaland get to 14 goals from 7 matches. He also owns 2 assists.