Mbappe Leads France in a Commanding 3-0 Victory Over Azerbaijan in Paris
10 October 2025
Match Report
France extended its perfect run in the European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup to be hosted by the United States Canada and Mexico after a 3-0 victory over Azerbaijan at Parc des Princes in Paris, the home of Paris Saint Germain.
The goals came from Kylian Mbappe in the 45th+2 minute, Adrien Rabiot in the 69th, and Florian Thauvin in the 84th, sealing a convincing win for the hosts who pressed from the opening whistle and never let Azerbaijan settle.
Scorers and Key Moments
Mbappe delivered the opener late in the first half after a clever build with Camavinga, giving France the edge as the interval approached. Rabiot added a second with a powerful header from Mbappe’s cross, extending the lead and removing any doubt about the outcome.
Thauvin’s late arrival on the field turned into a memorable moment, as he scored an acrobatic volley within a minute of coming on, completing a return to the national side after more than six years away from the international scene.
Team Notes
France also gave international minutes to Jean-Philippe Mateta, a Crystal Palace striker, who featured in the second half after being recalled by Didier Deschamps. Deschamps had praised Mateta as a physically imposing presence with real goal threat.
The defense and the goalkeeper Mike Maignan were composed for long spells, with Azerbaijan’s chances at a premium despite sporadic attacks. France’s tempo and organization were evident, and Mbappe appeared in full fitness, dispelling any talk of lingering ankle concerns after recent reports.
Outlook
With three wins from three matches, France sit atop the group on nine points, ahead of their trip to Iceland on Monday. Azerbaijan remain on one point, ahead of their next assignment against Ukraine in the same group. The result reinforces France’s status as clear favorites to progress to the 2026 World Cup alongside the early hosts.
Additional Notes
France’s collective performance was marked by discipline, sharp pressing, and effective transitions, with Mbappe driving the attack and Thauvin rediscovering his best form after a long layoff. Mateta’s involvement adds depth to the squad as Deschamps continues to rotate his options ahead of future fixtures.
Punchline 1: If jokes were goals, Mbappé would be a sniper—aim, fire, repeat.
Punchline 2: Azerbaijan parked the bus so well, even GPS asked for directions to the empty net.
