What observers say
“Kylian Mbappe’s neat lofted finish put the European side in front and moved him within one goal of Olivier Giroud’s all-time national record,” noted analysts following the match. In a friendly encounter held at Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts, USA, France defeated Brazil 2-1, with Mbappe scoring his 56th goal for the national team.
The match showcased Mbappe’s exceptional talent, as he is now just one goal shy of equalling Giroud’s record. Ousmane Dembele played a crucial role in the game, providing the assist for Mbappe’s opening goal. Hugo Ekitike added a second goal for France, solidifying their lead against the South American giants.
Despite the victory, France faced some challenges during the match. Dayot Upamecano received a red card, leaving the team to navigate the remainder of the game with ten players. Nevertheless, the win extended France’s unbeaten streak to eight games, a testament to their strong form leading into future competitions.
Looking ahead, France is set to face Colombia in another international friendly on March 27, 2026. Colombia, having finished third in CONMEBOL qualifying for the World Cup, poses a significant challenge for the French side. James Rodriguez, a veteran player for Colombia, is expected to earn his 124th international cap during this match.
Didier Deschamps, the head coach of France, addressed concerns regarding Dembele’s fitness after he was substituted due to a thigh issue. “No, he’s fine, there’s no problem,” Deschamps confirmed, alleviating worries about the player’s condition.
Historically, France has had a competitive record against Colombia, winning four of their previous meetings, while Colombia has triumphed in three. This upcoming match could further impact the dynamics between the two teams as they prepare for future international tournaments.
As the French team continues to build momentum, the focus will be on Mbappe’s pursuit of Giroud’s record, which has become a significant talking point among fans and analysts alike. With each match, the excitement surrounding France football grows, particularly as they aim to maintain their unbeaten streak and showcase their depth in talent.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final lineup for the match against Colombia, but potential starters include Maignan, Kalulu, Konate, Lacroix, Digne, Kante, Rabiot, Olise, Cherki, Ekitike, and Mbappe. The anticipation builds as fans await the next chapter in this ongoing saga of French football excellence.
