Mbappe Shatters French Football History, Surpasses Legendary Goal Record
Kylian Mbappé has now etched his name above the iconic Thierry Henry in France's record books.
The Real Madrid sensation netted his 52nd international goal on Tuesday evening, officially overtaking Henry to claim the position as France's second-highest scorer of all time. Mbappé required only 90 caps to reach this historic milestone for his nation.
Mbappé's record-breaking strike came via penalty kick just before the interval against Iceland during France's second 2026 FIFA World Cup UEFA Qualifier in the September international window. The composed conversion by the 26-year-old brought France level after conceding an early opener to Andri Guðjohnsen.
While the goal itself may not rank among Mbappé's most spectacular moments in the national jersey, it will forever be remembered as the strike that elevated the Frenchman beyond one of his boyhood idols in the history books.
View the historic moment below.
Mbappé now sits just five strikes behind Olivier Giroud's all-time record. The former Arsenal striker netted 57 times for France, holding the national record. It's no longer a question of if, but when Mbappé will surpass the forward on Les Bleus' all-time scoring chart.
Rank | Player | Goals |
|---|---|---|
1 | Olivier Giroud | 57 |
2 | Kylian Mbappé | 52 |
3 | Thierry Henry | 51 |
4 | Antoine Griezmann | 44 |
5 | Michel Platini | 41 |
Even more remarkable than Mbappé's achievement is the pace at which he reached this landmark. Henry required 123 international appearances to score 51 goals, while the Real Madrid star has surpassed that mark in 33 fewer matches.
Didier Deschamps will be delighted to witness his captain returning to peak scoring form following Mbappé's difficult period last season. The France striker has now scored four goals in his previous four international outings. He has also contributed two assists during this same stretch.
Beyond his personal achievements, Mbappé will concentrate on ensuring Les Bleus qualify for next summer's World Cup. France aims to make a strong showing in the United States, Mexico and Canada in 2026 to reach their third straight World Cup final.