World Cup 2026 news: Kylian Mbappe scores brace to keep pace with Lionel Messi as France beat Iraq

Kylian Mbappe continued his impressive FIFA World Cup campaign with a brace as France secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Iraq in Group I on Monday.

The France captain struck either side of half-time before Ousmane Dembele added a third as Didier Deschamps' side maintained their perfect start to the tournament and strengthened their position at the top of the group.

The result also ensured Mbappe remained firmly among the leading contenders for the Golden Boot as he continued to add to an already productive tournament.

Mbappe leads the way again

France once again turned to their talisman when they needed a breakthrough.

Mbappe opened the scoring in the 14th minute before doubling his tally shortly after the restart to place France firmly in control.

Dembele's second-half strike added further gloss to the scoreline, but much of the attention once again centred on Mbappe's contribution.

The forward has been one of the standout performers of World Cup 2026 and continues to build momentum as France target another deep run in the competition.

France maintain perfect start

While Mbappe provided the decisive moments, France produced another composed and professional display.

Iraq worked hard defensively and attempted to frustrate the tournament favourites, but France's quality eventually proved too much.

The victory follows Les Bleus' opening win over Senegal and leaves them well positioned heading into the latter stages of the group phase.

France have now scored seven goals across their opening two matches while conceding only once.

READ MORE: World Cup 2026 news: Lionel Messi breaks scoring record as Argentina beat Austria

Mbappe reacts to Messi milestone

Following Argentina's victory over Austria earlier in the day, Lionel Messi became the outright leading goalscorer in World Cup history.

Mbappe was asked about the achievement after helping France secure another three points.

"If I want to keep up with what Leo is doing, I'll have to do even more," Mbappe said.

The comment highlighted the respect between two of the game's biggest stars while also underlining the remarkable standards being set at this year's tournament.

Frustration over pitch conditions

Mbappe also addressed the lengthy weather delay and the condition of the playing surface following the match.

Images of the France captain speaking with ground staff circulated on social media during the interruption.

"The side of the pitch where we were attacking was completely waterlogged," Mbappe said.

"They spent 20 minutes cleaning the side where we defend, but they didn't spend any time cleaning the side where we attack."

The France forward admitted the situation caused some frustration but refused to make excuses.

"I think having to wait for two hours, and then you arrive and see that they didn't actually protect the pitch – normally they should cover it – so it's a small frustration, but it passes."

Focus turns to the knockout stages

With two victories from two matches, France have secured their place in the last 32.

Mbappe continues to lead from the front, while players such as Dembele are also beginning to make their mark.

Most importantly for Deschamps, France appear to be finding their rhythm as the competition progresses.

And if Mbappe continues scoring at this rate, Les Bleus will remain among the favourites to lift the trophy once again.

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