France delivered an overwhelmingly dominant display in Euro 2024 qualifying, clinching a resounding 14-0 victory over Gibraltar at Nice’s Allianz Riviera stadium. Kylian Mbappe’s remarkable hat-trick, featuring a jaw-dropping 40-yard strike, encapsulated France’s commanding performance.
From the onset, France set the tone with an own goal, followed swiftly by Marcus Thuram’s strike and the debut goal from 17-year-old Warren Zaire-Emery, marking France’s youngest player since 1914. Sadly, Zaire-Emery exited with an ankle injury after Gibraltar’s Ethan Santos received a red card for a harsh challenge during his goal.
Mbappe ignited a goal spree with a penalty, triggering four goals within seven minutes, including contributions from Jonathan Clauss, Kingsley Coman, and Youssouf Fofana, securing a seven-goal lead by halftime.
The second half continued the onslaught, with Adrien Rabiot and Coman notching further goals. Ousmane Dembele added to the tally, followed swiftly by Mbappe’s second, showcasing exceptional teamwork with Theo Hernandez.
Mbappe almost secured a third assist, setting up Olivier Giroud, but the goal was disallowed. However, he completed his hat-trick spectacularly with an audacious 40-yard strike, leaving goalkeeper Dayle Coleing stunned.
Giroud found the net twice in the closing moments, sealing France’s comprehensive victory. With a flawless qualifying record of seven wins in as many games, France prepares to face Greece in their next match, maintaining their perfect run in the qualifiers.