Mbappe: 'I'd have to play until 80 to shut up critics' after record night

Kylian Mbappe hit back at detractors after a record-breaking night, scoring twice as France beat Senegal 3-1 in New Jersey and becoming his country’s all-time leading goalscorer. His second goal, a sensational long-range strike, sealed the result and ensured Didier Deschamps’ side started their World Cup campaign on the right foot.

Mbappe dismissed the idea that his performance was motivated by revenge. "I play to mark the history of my country and make sure that my team is in the final and win the World Cup," he said. He added: "There is no revenge [against critics]. If I started playing for all the people who criticise me and to shut them up, I would have to play until I'm 80.

After my brace, I thought about my relatives, my family, my close friends who were here today. Every time I score it's for them." The match came after a difficult period at Real Madrid, where he faced boos and a fan-led petition reportedly gathering over a million signatures following another season without a major trophy.

United States, New Jersey

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