The Parc des Princes fell completely silent before kickoff. More than 41,000 fans stood together to honor the 10th anniversary of the November 13 attacks in Paris, a moment that added weight and reflection to an already meaningful night. The tribute recalled the tragedy at the Bataclan and the attempted attack outside the Stade de France, where France were also playing.
Didier Deschamps was coaching the national team that night in 2015 and he remains in charge today. This time, the objective was different. A win would send France to the 2026 World Cup with one qualifying match still remaining.
Once the whistle blew, France produced their most convincing performance of the campaign. Control, creativity and confidence blended into a match that felt like a step forward after several uneven displays.
Kylian Mbappé struck first from the penalty spot early in the second half after Michael Olise was fouled inside the area. The captain chipped his finish with total composure, a reminder of his unmatched calm when the moment demands it. The goal lifted the atmosphere and opened the door for France to play with greater freedom.
Olise announces himself and France accelerate toward the World Cup
Olise was the standout presence on the pitch. Initially deployed on the right and later drifting into central zones, he brought rhythm and unpredictability that Ukraine never managed to contain. His turn and finish for France’s second goal felt like a milestone moment in his early international career.
Ukraine began to lose structure in the final stages and France punished every mistake. Mbappé scored again in the 83rd minute, taking him to 55 international goals and placing him within striking distance of Olivier Giroud’s record of 57. The chase for the top spot in the all-time scoring chart is now firmly underway.
The final word belonged to Hugo Ekitike, who converted a flowing French move for his first senior goal. His reaction said everything. Relief, joy and the feeling of belonging at this level.
France now hold an unassailable lead in Group D. With qualification secured, the team can approach the final match in Azerbaijan with less pressure and begin shifting attention toward the World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., on December 5.
This was more than a routine victory. It looked like the beginning of a new French attack. Mbappé leading, Olise rising, Ekitike breaking through. A fresh identity forming in real time.
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