World Cup 2026
Kylian Mbappe insists he’s ‘saving’ goals for World Cup as Michael Olise steals spotlight with hat-trick for France
Kylian Mbappe insists he’s ‘saving’ goals for World Cup as Michael Olise steals spotlight with hat-trick for France
France head into the 2026 World Cup with plenty of optimism after defeating Northern Ireland 3-1 in their final warm-up fixture, but the match highlighted two very different stories in attack.
While captain Kylian Mbappe extended his goal drought to three consecutive international appearances, Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise delivered a sensational hat-trick to send Les Bleus into the tournament on a high.
Mbappe’s drought continues
Despite causing problems throughout the evening and creating several promising opportunities, Mbappe once again failed to find the back of the net.
The Real Madrid superstar has now gone three matches without scoring for France, a rare occurrence for a player who has amassed 56 goals in just 98 appearances for his country.
However, neither the striker nor head coach Didier Deschamps appears concerned ahead of the World Cup.
Mbappe’s influence on matches remains significant even when goals are not flowing, and France’s coaching staff remain confident their talisman will rediscover his clinical touch when it matters most.
Deschamps laughs off concerns
Speaking after the victory, Deschamps dismissed suggestions that Mbappe’s finishing struggles should be viewed as a concern.
The France manager even revealed a light-hearted conversation with his captain regarding the drought.
“I’m not going to worry,” Deschamps told TF1.
“It’s true he’s had several chances, but he hasn’t been clinical. He told me he was saving it for the USA, so I’m fine with that.”
The comment drew smiles from reporters and underlined the relaxed mood surrounding France’s preparations despite Mbappe’s recent lack of goals.
Olise steals the show in Lille
While Mbappe endured another frustrating night in front of goal, Olise produced the standout performance of the evening.
The Bayern Munich star continued the superb form that made him one of Europe’s most dangerous attackers during the club season, scoring all three of France’s goals in a dominant display.
Olise struck twice from close range after reacting quickest inside the penalty area before completing his treble with a superb curling effort from distance.
The performance further strengthened his case to become a key figure in France’s starting lineup throughout the World Cup.
France’s most in-form attacker?
Deschamps was full of praise for Olise after the final whistle and suggested the winger’s confidence is currently at an exceptional level.
“He’s radiant, just like his season at Bayern,” the France boss said.
“Everything is easy for him. He’s efficient, and that’s great. We’ll also need other players.”
The 24-year-old’s recent performances have transformed him from a promising squad option into one of France’s most important attacking weapons heading into the tournament.
Positive signs before World Cup challenge
Although Mbappe’s goal drought will inevitably attract attention, France will be encouraged by the emergence of another player capable of carrying the attacking burden.
With Mbappe, Olise and a wealth of attacking talent available, Les Bleus remain among the favourites to lift the World Cup trophy.
And if Mbappe’s joking prediction proves accurate, France’s opponents may soon discover that the captain really was saving his best finishing touch for the biggest stage of all.
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