In what can only be described as a footballing extravaganza, France orchestrated a dazzling 14-goal performance, leaving Gibraltar in their wake at the Allianz Riviera stadium in Nice during the Euro 2024 qualifying clash. Kylian Mbappe turned the uneven contest into his personal showcase, claiming a remarkable hat-trick, including an astonishing 40-yard strike that added an exclamation point to his team’s outstanding performance.
The scoreboard lit up with a historic 14-0 victory for France over a 10-man Gibraltar side, marking their biggest-ever win in Euro 2024 qualifying. Teenager Warren Zaire-Emery made a memorable debut, scoring amidst the goal frenzy, and Mbappe added his name to the score sheet with a remarkable long-range goal from 40 yards. The action kicked off with two own goals in the opening five minutes, setting the stage for a thrilling spectacle.
The first half unfolded with 17-year-old Zaire-Emery, France’s youngest player since 1914, making an impact by scoring on his debut before exiting the field with an ankle injury. Gibraltar’s challenges escalated when Ethan Santos received a red card for a rash tackle on Zaire-Emery, who managed to sweep the ball into the net.
Mbappe’s penalty at the half-hour mark triggered a goal spree, with Jonathan Clauss, Kingsley Coman, and Youssouf Fofana all finding the net, sending France into halftime with a resounding seven-goal lead. The second half continued the onslaught, featuring goals from Adrien Rabiot, Coman’s second, Ousmane Dembele, and a sensational second from Mbappe. Despite a disallowed goal, Mbappe completed his hat-trick with a spectacular 40-yard strike that sailed over the Gibraltar goalkeeper’s head.
The grand finale saw Olivier Giroud, who came off the bench, scoring twice in the dying minutes, adding the finishing touches to an extraordinary display. With seven wins in as many games, France maintains a perfect qualifying record and sets the stage for an exciting matchup against Greece.
KEY PLAYERS
ZAIRE-EMERY STARS ON LANDMARK DEBUT
He may have only been on the pitch for 18 minutes before coming off with an injury, but to come into the team as France’s youngest player in 109 years and score is some achievement.
At just 17 years and 255 days old, PSG’s Zaire-Emery slotted nicely into France’s midfield alongside Adrien Rabiot and looked comfortable in the early stages of the match, scored a goal and drew the foul which got Santos sent off. He made a big impact in so little time.
Is this a glimpse into the future?
Kylian Mbappe rightfully earned the Player of the Match accolade, contributing six goals against Gibraltar, showcasing his dominance alongside other world-class players in the French team. His hat-trick, complete with the breathtaking long-range goal, encapsulated the essence of the game, making it a standout moment in football history.
Key Stats
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France set a new record for their biggest-ever win in competitive football.
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France’s victory is the all-time biggest win in Euros qualifying history.
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Zaire-Emery became France’s youngest player since 1914 at 17 years and 255 days old.