Kylian Mbappe continued his goal-scoring spree in the FIFA World Cup quarter-final, as France eased past a gritty Moroccan unit for a 2-0 victory to secure a berth in the last four. After missing a penalty in the first half, Mbappe bounced back in style and struck a spectacular long-ranger to put Les Bleus in front. A few minutes after Ousmane Dembele doubled their lead, the French captain was taken off, supposedly due to injury concerns.
Mbappe might be dealing with an ankle issue, and Didier Deschamps could not afford any risk with his star man. With the semi-finals only five days away, fans speculate on the severity of his injury. Deschamps addressed the topic after the quarter-final win in Boston.
Kylian Mbappe Injury Update
The French manager ensured that Mbappe would be available for the semi-final, where they would face either Spain or Belgium. According to Deschamps, the Real Madrid forward was feeling pain in his ankle, forcing the substitution call. It, however, appears to be a minor injury.
“Kylian has a small ankle problem. He was feeling some pain,” Deschamps told the media. Though he didn’t confirm the expected time of recovery, France remain hopeful about having their top scorer in the next knockout game.
Mbappe, with his goal against Morocco, joined Lionel Messi atop the FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Boot standings, with each having hit the net eight times so far. The race is expected to be settled on the final day, with both France and Argentina enjoying a dominant run.
France Deal With Multiple Injury Concerns
Apart from Mbappe, Manu Kone also picked up a minor knock against Morocco. The midfielder, who has started since Aurelien Tchouameni’s injury, played the full 90 minutes despite a knee problem and cramps. Deschamps seemed optimistic about having all his first-team players fit for the semi-final, slated to take place in Dallas on July 14.
