Mbappe reaches a new milestone in his career

According to China's Xinhua News Agency, the 27-year-old striker reached 100 caps for France on June 22. He marked this memorable occasion with two goals in a 3-0 victory over Iraq, helping 'Les Bleus' secure a spot in the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup.

Mbappe became the youngest player in French national team history to reach 100 appearances, less than nine years after his debut. "Playing for the national team is always an honor. There is nothing greater than wearing the national jersey. One hundred games is a historic milestone, even more special because it came at the World Cup," Mbappe shared.

Mbappe has scored four goals in just two matches at this year's World Cup, after netting a brace in France's 3-1 win over Senegal in their opening game.

His World Cup record now stands at 4 goals in 2018, 8 in 2022, and an additional 4 in this tournament. Mbappe always knows how to make a difference when stepping onto the biggest stage in world football.

In Russia 2018, he was a fearless teenager charging straight at opposing defenses. In Qatar 2022, he scored a hat-trick in the final against Argentina but ultimately missed out on the golden trophy.

Now on North American soil, Mbappe shoulders a completely different responsibility. France arrived at the tournament as one of the top contenders for the title, and he no longer has experienced seniors to shield him as before.

Coach Didier Deschamps believes Mbappe's impact should not be measured solely by goals. He also dismissed criticisms that the 27-year-old striker is too selfish or self-centered. "I've heard enough criticism about Mbappe's ego. But that is not who he is at all. Mbappe is our captain and a positive role model for the whole team," Deschamps asserted.

For his part, Mbappe also tries to shift focus to France's journey rather than personal milestones. He said before the match against Iraq: "I just want to be written into history with my country."

The quest for France's third World Cup title is picking up pace. The tournament is still in its early stages, but Mbappe has never been the type of player who likes to wait.