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Mbappé Brace Lifts France Past Iraq After Weather Delay

ESPN Soccer •
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Kylian Mbappé scored twice as France defeated Iraq 3-0 at Lincoln Financial Field, overcoming a two-hour weather delay caused by thunder and lightning in Philadelphia. The 2018 champions controlled proceedings throughout, with Mbappé opening the scoring before the storm hit and adding his second after play resumed.

Mbappé's brace brought his tournament tally to four goals and moved him level with Germany legend Miroslav Klose on 16 career World Cup strikes. Lionel Messi now leads the all-time chart with 18 goals after his own double against Austria earlier Monday. Ousmane Dembélé provided the assist for Mbappé's second before netting France's third for his maiden World Cup goal.

The victory gave France six points from two matches following their 3-1 opening win over Senegal. Manager Didier Deschamps can rest easy knowing his side has secured a knockout stage berth, though their final group match against Norway will likely determine the group winner.

Heavy rain also affected the Norway-Senegal game in East Rutherford, though that match kicked off on schedule. France's clinical performance despite the disruption shows why they remain contenders for a second consecutive World Cup title.