France thrashes Ukraine 4–0 to secure 2026 World Cup qualification

France defeated Ukraine 4–0 last night in Paris, officially qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Kylian Mbappé scored twice, including his landmark 400th career goal, while Michael Olise and Hugo Ekitiké added to the tally.

France secured their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a resounding 4–0 victory over Ukraine at the Parc des Princes on Thursday evening. The match, played on the 10th anniversary of the Paris attacks, carried both sporting and emotional significance, as Didier Deschamps’ side delivered a performance worthy of the occasion.  

After a tense first half in which Ukraine’s defense held firm, the breakthrough came in the 55th minute when Kylian Mbappé converted a penalty. The Paris Saint-Germain forward then struck again to reach his 400th career goal, cementing his status as one of football’s modern greats.  

France’s dominance grew as Michael Olise doubled the lead, capitalizing on N’Golo Kanté’s midfield control. Late in the match, substitute Hugo Ekitiké scored his first international goal, sealing the emphatic win.