France See Off Azerbaijan 3-0 to Close In on World Cup Qualification, But Star Forward Suffers Injury Scare

Kylian Mbappé produced a moment of individual brilliance to help France overcome a stubborn Azerbaijan side, sealing a comfortable 3-0 victory in their FIFA World Cup European Group D qualifier on Friday night. The win puts Les Bleus one step closer to securing their spot in next year’s tournament.

Despite starting with a strong attacking line-up, Didier Deschamps’ side struggled to break down a resilient Azerbaijani defence throughout a lacklustre first half. However, just as the visitors looked set to reach the break with the scores level, Mbappé in scintillating form for club and country stepped up.

In first-half stoppage time, the France captain collected the ball on the edge of the box and weaved past multiple defenders before slotting a low shot into the corner for a sensational solo goal (45+1′). The goal extended his incredible scoring streak to 10 consecutive games for club and country.

Mbappé turned provider in the second half. In the 69th minute, he expertly flicked a corner back into the penalty area, where midfielder Adrien Rabiot was on hand to head home the second goal. Substitute Florian Thauvin, making his first international appearance since 2019, wrapped up the scoring with a brilliant volley just moments after replacing Mbappé in the 84th minute, making the final score 3-0.

The victory gives France a maximum nine points from three games, solidifying their position at the top of Group D. They now have a chance to book their passage to the World Cup with a win against Iceland on Monday. However, the victory was marred by a late injury scare, as Mbappé limped off the pitch shortly before the third goal, seemingly nursing an ankle problem a major concern for both the French national team and his club, Real Madrid.