• Kylian Mbappé scores twice, becoming France's all-time top scorer with 58 goals.
• France secures a 3-1 victory over Senegal in their World Cup Group I opener.
• Mbappé's first goal came in the 66th minute, followed by a long-range strike in stoppage time.

Kylian Mbappé became France's all-time leading scorer with a brace against Senegal, surpassing Olivier Giroud's previous record with a total of 58 goals during their World Cup opener, which ended in a 3-1 victory for Les Bleus. The match took place at New York New Jersey Stadium, and a critical turning point came in the second half when Mbappé converted a pass from Michael Olise, breaking the deadlock in the 66th minute. Shortly afterward, he sealed the game with a stunning long-range strike deep into stoppage time, just seconds after Ibrahim Mbaye scored Senegal's consolation goal, according to Reuters, Al Jazeera, and Channel News Asia.

Despite Senegal's strong first-half performance, which included several threatening attacks, the French team turned the tide in the second half. Mbappé's opening goal not only marked his record-breaking moment but also showcased his class and crucial role in the match, as he further solidified his position as one of the top players in World Cup history, now with 14 tournament goals, just behind Miroslav Klose. Coach Didier Deschamps had emphasized the need for confidence and focus heading into this tournament, reflecting on past experiences where overconfidence led to failures, according to Le Monde and Le Monde.

Mbappé’s double not only further cements his legacy but also comes as France prepares for upcoming matches against Iraq and Norway in the group stage. This match, marking his 99th appearance for the national team, contributed to a strong start in their campaign for a third World Cup title. Observers noted that while Senegal showed promise early on, with significant efforts from players like Sadio Mane, it was France that ultimately surged ahead to claim the victory, illustrating their capacity to rebound and capitalize on opportunities, according to Channel News Asia and Reuters.