Mbappé Unveils Playful New Celebration After Scoring for France in World Cup Qualifier

Kylian Mbappé added another goal to his impressive international tally during France’s 2–0 victory over Ukraine in the opening match of their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

The Real Madrid forward struck in the 82nd minute, showcasing his trademark pace and precision to seal the win for Les Bleus. But it wasn’t just the goal that caught attention—it was the celebration.

After scoring, Mbappé unveiled a new gesture that sparked curiosity among fans and commentators alike. Departing from his familiar cross-armed pose, he opted for a more playful and expressive stance. While the exact meaning behind the celebration remains unconfirmed, it’s widely speculated to be a nod to his close friend and teammate Achraf Hakimi. The two have previously shared similar celebratory poses during club matches, suggesting a personal connection behind the gesture.

Mbappé’s goal also marked a significant milestone: it was his 51st for France, drawing him level with Thierry Henry as the second-highest scorer in the history of the French men’s national team. His form continues to be electric, and with each match, he not only inches closer to Olivier Giroud’s record but also reinforces his role as the emotional and tactical leader of the squad.