Kylian Mbappe has surpassed Thierry Henry to become the second all-time top scorer of the French National Team.
In what was a historical night for Mbappe, the Real Madrid forward led the comeback against Iceland, scored, assisted, and ensured Henry record was broken.
An early mistake by Michael Olise gifted Andri Gudjohnsen the opener in the 22nd minute, forcing Didier Deschamps’ men to fight from behind.
France created several chances to equalize, but goalkeeper Elias Olafsson denied Marcus Thuram, Manu Koné and even Mbappé with outstanding saves. VAR finally intervened before halftime, awarding a penalty for a foul on Thuram. Mbappé converted with calmness to level the score 1-1.
Kylian Mbappe celebrates his first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier -Group H match between France and Iceland. (Photo by Xavier Laine/Getty Images)
In the second half, Les Bleus kept pushing. In the 62nd minute, Mbappé burst past the defense and unselfishly set up Bradley Barcola, who tapped into an empty net for the 2-1 lead. The captain’s decision showed leadership, putting the team ahead of personal records.
However, the game saw some dramatic scene when Aurélien Tchouaméni was sent off in the 67th minute for a reckless challenge on Thorsteinsson, leaving France with ten men. Minutes later, VAR annulled a potential equalizer from Gudjohnsen due to a foul on Ibrahima Konaté, sparking controversy in the stands.
Ultimately, it was Mbappe’s night. With his penalty goal and key assist, the Real Madrid forward reached 52 goals in 92 appearances for the French National Team, surpassing Thierry Henry’s 51.
He now trails only Olivier Giroud, who sits atop with 57 goals.
