Kylian Mbappe’s double propels France past Iraq, ties Closer’s World Cup scoring record

French striker Kylian Mbappe scored twice – in the 14th minute and later in the second half – as France defeated Iraq 3-0 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup group‑stage match in Philadelphia. The goals brought Mbappe’s World Cup tally to 16, equalling German legend Miroslav Klose’s record and moving past Brazil’s Ronaldo.

The match was repeatedly halted by a severe thunderstorm, with lightning forcing a safety pause that extended the game to more than four hours. The interruption, required by U.S. storm‑safety regulations, added over two hours of delay before play resumed. The win gave France six points and a place in the knockout round, where they will meet Norway, featuring Erling Haaland.