Credit: Yukihito Taguchi-USA TODAY Sports

Kylian Mbappe Surpasses Thierry Henry in France’s All-Time Scoring Charts

Credit: Yukihito Taguchi-USA TODAY Sports

Kylian Mbappe has written another chapter in French football history during France’s recent World Cup qualifiers match against Iceland. He surpassed French legend Thierry Henry to become the second-highest scorer for Les Bleus.

Mbappe’s goal, which was France’s opening goal of the day, became his 52nd international goal. With that, he moved ahead of one of his childhood idols. The milestone strike came just before halftime when Mbappe calmly hit a shot from the penalty spot.

⭐️🇫🇷 Kylian Mbappé surpasses Thierry Henry as second top goalscorer ever in France history.

52 goals. 🎞️ pic.twitter.com/yXPwVQlO0y
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 9, 2025

That goal levelled the score after France had conceded early into the game. The goal itself was routine, but the significance was immense. It pushed the Real Madrid forward past Henry’s tally of 51 goals for France. Mbappe now has his sights set on Giroud’s record at the top.

Historic Rise at Incredible Pace for Kylian Mbappe

What sets Mbappe’s record apart from the legends on France’s top goalscorers’ list is the pace at which he has reached this milestone. Henry needed 123 international appearances to reach 51 goals. Mbappe has already eclipsed that mark in just 87 matches.

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He’s boasting a strike rate that is unmatched by any other French forward in modern times. Currently, only Olivier Giroud remains ahead of Mbappe. The veteran striker is holding onto the record as France’s all-time top scorer at 57 goals in 131 caps. Mbappe is consistent and his average of more than 0.6 goals per game.

Hence, it’s only a matter of time before he overtakes Giroud at the top of the list. The France team captain has been central to France’s recent success. With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, Mbappe’s form only gives hope for France’s chances in the tournament.

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France’s All-Time Top Scorers

Olivier Giroud – 57 goals (131 matches)
Kylian Mbappé – 52 goals (87 matches)
Thierry Henry – 51 goals (123 matches)
Antoine Griezmann – 44 goals (127 matches)
Michel Platini – 41 goals (72 matches)

At just 26, Mbappe is already within striking distance of the record. He is also on track to set a benchmark that could stand for generations. As France continues its World Cup qualifying campaign Mbappe will be determined to reach the target sooner rather than later.

France

Kylian Mbappe

Thierry Henry

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.