France delivered a powerful statement in their FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, brushing aside Ukraine 4–0 in a dominant second-half display. After a cagey first 45 minutes, Les Bleus reminded the world—including football-loving nations like Kenya—why they remain one of the most consistently elite teams in global football.
This article breaks down the game’s major talking points, what Ukrainian resistance meant, how France unlocked the match, and why Kenyan fans might draw parallels with Harambee Stars’ ambitions.
🔥 First-Half Tension: French Fire Meets Ukrainian Resilience
France started brightly, with Michael Olise, Rayan Cherki, and Manu Koné testing Ukrainian keeper Anatoliy Trubin and his backline. Ukraine’s defence, led by Taras Mykhavko and Roman Yaremchuk, bravely threw bodies on the line as they absorbed wave after wave of French attacks.
Moments of quality and emotional reflection filled the half, especially the stadium tribute marking 10 years since the 2015 Paris attacks. Despite domination, France’s chances kept drifting wide or getting blocked. Ukraine pushed forward in short bursts, but France remained in control without converting its gains into a decisive victory.
Kenyan fans watching would have recognized this as the classic “dominance without scoring” dilemma often faced in AFCON qualifiers—control means nothing without precision.
⚽ Second-Half Breakthrough: Mbappé’s Audacious Panenka Lights the Fuse
The match exploded into life just after the break. The referee waved away Ukraine’s penalty shout before awarding one on the opposite end for a tackle on Olise. Captain Kylian Mbappé stepped up and delivered a cheeky Panenka that shifted the momentum instantly.
From there, the Ukrainian wall began to crumble.
Mbappé peppered Trubin with more attempts, while substitute Hugo Ekitiké hit the post. France’s confidence surged, and Ukraine struggled to maintain its earlier compact structure.
This clinical shift is precisely what makes France dangerous—something Harambee Stars are striving to replicate: turning pressure into goals.
🎯 Olise, Ekitiké, and Akliouche Seal the Rout
France’s bench depth—a luxury few national teams enjoy—made the difference. Maghnes Akliouche and Ekitiké entered the pitch and immediately added intensity. Olise doubled the lead with a sharp finish following N’Golo Kanté’s perfectly timed pass, capitalizing on Ukraine’s tired midfield.
Ekitiké assisted Mbappé for the third before scoring his first international goal after a quick one-two with the French captain.
For Kenyan football fans, this was a reminder: depth matters. As the FKF Premier League grows and more Kenyan players move abroad, building capable substitutes will define our future competitiveness.
Ukraine’s Slip: A Blow Before a Decisive Clash
The defeat halted Ukraine’s impressive three-game unbeaten run and pushed them below Iceland on goal difference. Their next match becomes a “do-or-die” encounter for second place.
For a team known for grit and tactical discipline, the second-half collapse was a harsh lesson—and a vivid demonstration of how quickly elite teams punish mistakes.
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🏁 Final Word: France Marches Toward Another World Cup With Purpose
France’s 4–0 dismantling of Ukraine wasn’t just a win—it was a warning shot to the football world. Les Bleus have now qualified for their eighth consecutive World Cup, showcasing a blend of discipline, flair, squad depth, and ruthless finishing.
For Kenya, the match serves as an inspiring case study in what it takes to excel on the international stage. If Harambee Stars can build consistency, depth, and composure, similar triumphs might not be far away.
