Mbappé becomes first player to score in knockout stages of three different World Cups

Kylian Mbappé continues to rewrite World Cup history. In the Round of 16 match of the 2026 World Cup against Paraguay, the France striker converted a penalty in the 70th minute to give his side a 1-0 victory. The goal was Mbappé's seventh of the tournament, but more importantly, it made him the first player ever to score in knockout-stage matches at three different World Cups. Mbappé had previously found the net in the elimination rounds of both the 2018 and 2022 tournaments, and now adds 2026 to that exclusive list. With this win, France advanced to the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of Spain vs. Germany. The match against Paraguay was a tense affair, but Mbappé’s composure from the penalty spot proved decisive. For the 27-year-old forward, it is yet another reminder of his greatness on the biggest stage. His knack for delivering in clutch moments at major tournaments continues to amaze.