FRA 3-1 POL: It was a masterclass in clinical finishing on Sunday as France beat Poland 3-0 to seal their place in the FIFA WC 2022 Q/F’s.
Kylian Mbappé continued his rich vein of form in the World Cup as the striker bagged a brace and became the tournament’s top scorer following a record breaking goal from Giroud.
Lewandowski scored the consolation effort from Poland late in stoppage time.
FIRST HALF
The Frenchman struck the opening goal when he scored on the turn from Mbappé’s through ball past Szczesny to become the nation’s top scorer in international football (52), going past Henry’s 51.
Olivier Giroud has scored more goals for France than any other player in the history of the men’s national team, overtaking Thierry Henry.
◎ 117 games
◉ 52 goalsThe most underrated striker in the world. 🌎 pic.twitter.com/4rf0f61UMI
— Squawka (@Squawka) December 4, 2022
Also read: FIFA World Cup 2022: Asian Teams who have qualified for Round of 16; See Names
Lloris made some fine saves in the first half alongside a goal line clearance from Varane. Szczesny had his hands full as well when he made saves off Mbappé and Griezmann.
Giroud earlier in the contest had the chance to send France ahead but missed an open goal. However, he made up with his 44th minute effort.
SECOND HALF
Mbappé turned scorer in the second half when he took a touch from Dembele’s pass before hammering home past the Polish keeper. The PSG striker scored another breath-taking goal towards the end when he scored from a tighter-angle in similar fashion.
Kylian Mbappe passes Pele for most World Cup goals scored by a men’s player before turning 24 years old (8) 😮👏 pic.twitter.com/uJLZDH6LWO
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 4, 2022
Also read: FIFA World Cup 2022: Germany, Belgium, Uruguay Why Top Contenders KO from WC
France’s third goal of the night was the killer blow for Poland as they dropped shoulders and lacked any conviction or desire of getting back into the fray.
Lewandowski’s late penalty was Poland’s only source of goal as he scored his second goal of the tournament on his way out of the World Cup.
Indeed, it was a masterclass in clinical finishing from Les Bleus with Mbappé being too hot to handle.
Poland weren’t convinced in their attack approach and France were just too good on the day. This win sent them to the Quarter-Finals where they face England or Senegal.
