France has secured a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a commanding 4-0 victory over Ukraine at the Parc des Princes on November 13, 2025. Kylian Mbappe led the way with a brace, while Michael Olise and Hugo Ekitike also found the net in a performance that ensured the two-time champions’ qualification for next year’s tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Mbappe Stars in World Cup Qualifier

Captain Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring with a calm penalty ten minutes into the second half after Olise was fouled inside the box. The Paris Saint-Germain superstar added a second goal late in the match, bringing his international tally to 55 goals, just two behind Olivier Giroud’s all-time record of 57 for France.

Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise doubled France’s lead in the 76th minute after setting up Ekitike earlier in the half. Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike then sealed the win with his first senior international goal, completing a professional and efficient performance.

Tribute to Paris Attack Victims

Before kickoff, 41,000 spectators observed a minute’s silence to mark the 10th anniversary of the November 13, 2015, Paris attacks. Most victims were killed at the Bataclan concert hall, while one died near the Stade de France in Saint-Denis during a coordinated terrorist attack. France’s coach at the time, Didier Deschamps, who remains in charge, led the team through the commemorative ceremony.

Qualification Secured Ahead of Final Match

With one game remaining in Azerbaijan on Sunday, France has an unassailable six-point lead at the top of European qualifying Group D, ahead of Iceland and Ukraine. Their flawless record in major tournaments continues, maintaining their streak of World Cup appearances since missing the 1994 edition in the United States.

Coach Didier Deschamps described the performance as “professional rather than spectacular” but emphasized that the objective of qualification had been met. “The first half was difficult against a low block, but we achieved our goal,” Deschamps said.

France’s Key Players Shine

Mbappe and Olise were in excellent form, while Bradley Barcola nearly scored in the first half with a curling effort that struck the woodwork. Olise, shifted from the right to a central role, proved decisive by both creating and scoring goals. Ekitike’s finish rounded off a dominant display that demonstrated France’s depth and attacking quality.

Context: European Qualifying Drama

Elsewhere in Europe, Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off during a shock 2-0 defeat to Ireland, risking a two-game suspension that could impact his participation in the World Cup if Portugal qualifies. Meanwhile, Norway’s Erling Haaland scored twice as his team beat Estonia 4-1, putting Norway close to securing their first World Cup spot since 1998.

Already-qualified England maintained their perfect record in Group K with a 2-0 win over Serbia at Wembley, while Albania beat Andorra 1-0 to claim the group runner-up spot.

Road to the 2026 World Cup

France now looks ahead to the World Cup finals in North America, where they will compete alongside other European qualifiers. The draw for the tournament will take place in Washington, D.C., on December 5, setting the stage for the next chapter in Les Bleus’ quest for global football glory.