#kylian-mbappe

#kylian-mbappe

France secured their place at next summer's World Cup with an easy 4-0 win over Ukraine in Paris. Les Bleus dominated possession from the outset but struggled to turn territory into clear chances before the break. Michael Olise and Rayan Cherki provided early spark on the flanks, while Kylian Mbappe twice tested Anatoliy Trubin, who produced strong saves from a low drive in the 17th minute and a bending Barcola effort just before half-time.

It was supposed to be Vinícius Júnior's year. In 2024 Real Madrid's star forward had won LaLiga, and he'd won the UEFA Champions League. Next, logically, would be the Ballon d'Or. Almost everybody thought so, a feeling most vociferously expressed by former Manchester United player Rio Ferdinand, who bellowed "Ballon d'Or!" into a microphone six times -- count them -- after Vini Jr. scored Madrid's second goal in the 2024 Champions League final.

He is a striker in form, netting well over a goal a game, scoring in almost every match this season. He is leading his club's title charge and taking his country to the brink of the World Cup. Usually this would be a remarkable introduction for any one player. But this season it applies to not one, not two, but three of Europe's leading strikers.