‘I’d Have to Play Until 80’, Mbappé Responds to Criticism

France began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 3-1 victory over Senegal, powered by Kylian Mbappé’s decisive performance.

The Real Madrid forward opened the scoring just after the hour mark, drawing level with Olivier Giroud’s all-time France record of 57 goals.

Substitute Bradley Barcola doubled the lead before Ibrahim Mbaye pulled one back for Senegal, but Mbappé struck again to surpass Giroud and restore Les Bleus’ two-goal cushion.

Speaking to French broadcaster M6 after the match, Mbappé dismissed suggestions that his display was motivated by revenge against critics.

‘No, it’s not about revenge. If I start playing just to prove all my critics wrong and shut them up, I think I’d have to keep playing until I’m 80,’ he said.

Instead, Mbappé emphasized his focus on France’s collective ambition: ‘I want to make France’s history, and to ensure my team reaches the final and wins the World Cup.’