Holders France ran riot to reach the 2022 World Cup finals with a match to spare after four goals from Kylian Mbappe helped them to an 8-0 home demolition of Kazakhstan in their Group D qualifier on Saturday.

The result left France top of the group on 15 points from seven games, four ahead of second-placed Finland who they visit in their final match on Tuesday.

Karim Benzema added two goals while Adrien Rabiot and Antoine Griezmann netted one each to cap an impressive performance at the Parc des Princes and seal France`s berth in next year`s 32-nation tournament in Qatar.

Coach Didier Deschamps fielded a 3-4-3 formation with Kingsley Coman deployed as a right wing-back and the attack-minded strategy produced an avalanche of goals as France`s natural talent shone.

The floodgates opened after Mbappe fired France into a sixth-minute lead with a superb first-time shot from a Theo Hernandez assist, with the home side always two gears ahead of the Kazakhs.

Mbappe added the second in the 12th minute with a simple finish into an empty net past a defender after Coman raced down the right, and he completed a first-half hat-trick in the 32nd when he headed home an inch-perfect cross from Coman.

The French never took their foot off the pedal after the break and soon increased their advantage with two quickfire goals from Benzema, who poked in the fourth from a Hernandez assist before Mbappe turned provider.

Rabiot scored his first international goal in the 75th minute as he headed in Griezmann`s corner before the latter netted his 42nd with a penalty, overtaking Michel Platini as his country`s third-highest top scorer.

The brilliant Mbappe put the icing on the cake three minutes before the end with a sublime finish into the bottom-right corner from a fine assist by substitute Moussa Diaby, with the home crowd already in full swing.

Benzema was delighted after combining with Mbappe to devastating effect up front.

"We`ve shown that we are compatible, that we can play together and have fun while scoring, creating goals and playing for the team," Benzema told French television. "I am so happy to have played as I did and above all to have won."

Holders France ran riot to reach the 2022 World Cup finals with a match to spare after four goals from Kylian Mbappe helped them to an 8-0 home demolition of Kazakhstan in their Group D qualifier on Saturday.

Holders France ran riot to reach the 2022 World Cup finals with a match to spare after four goals from Kylian Mbappe helped them to an 8-0 home demolition of Kazakhstan in their Group D qualifier on Saturday. The result left France top of the group on 15 points from seven games, four ahead of second-placed Finland who they visit in their final match on Tuesday. Karim Benzema added two goals while Adrien Rabiot and Antoine Griezmann netted one each to cap an impressive performance at the Parc des Princes and seal France`s berth in next year`s 32-nation tournament in Qatar. Coach Didier Deschamps fielded a 3-4-3 formation with Kingsley Coman deployed as a right wing-back and the attack-minded strategy produced an avalanche of goals as France`s natural talent shone. The floodgates opened after Mbappe fired France into a sixth-minute lead with a superb first-time shot from a Theo Hernandez assist, with the home side always two gears ahead of the Kazakhs. Mbappe added the second in the 12th minute with a simple finish into an empty net past a defender after Coman raced down the right, and he completed a first-half hat-trick in the 32nd when he headed home an inch-perfect cross from Coman. The French never took their foot off the pedal after the break and soon increased their advantage with two quickfire goals from Benzema, who poked in the fourth from a Hernandez assist before Mbappe turned provider. Rabiot scored his first international goal in the 75th minute as he headed in Griezmann`s corner before the latter netted his 42nd with a penalty, overtaking Michel Platini as his country`s third-highest top scorer. The brilliant Mbappe put the icing on the cake three minutes before the end with a sublime finish into the bottom-right corner from a fine assist by substitute Moussa Diaby, with the home crowd already in full swing. Benzema was delighted after combining with Mbappe to devastating effect up front. "We`ve shown that we are compatible, that we can play together and have fun while scoring, creating goals and playing for the team," Benzema told French television. "I am so happy to have played as I did and above all to have won."

Kylian Mbappe scores 4 goals as France thump Kazakhstan 8-0 to qualify for FIFA World Cup 2022

Paris Saint-Germain star forward Kylian Mbappe has announced his desire to represent France on home soil at the Paris Olympics in 2024.

After not getting permission from his club to take part in Tokyo 2020, Mbappe has set eye on the gold medal in the next Games. The World Cup winner stated that he cannot miss out on the opportunity to represent his country in the Summer Games.

"It was while watching the London Olympics in 2012 that I realized the importance of this global competition. The Games are "THE" benchmark for sport, the absolute holy grail that all sportsmen and women in the world want to compete in and experience at least once in their life," Mbappe stated in an open letter published in L`Equipe as per goal.com.

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Mbappe went on to explain how watching the London Games in 2012 inspired his dream of one day leading out France at the world`s biggest sporting event."That`s when I said to myself, I want to be there too. I want to experience the Paris Games. It`s a strong inner feeling, as if I were destined to participate in this huge celebration in my city, in my country, a hundred years after the last competition in France (the Summer Games).

PSG refused Mbappe permission to take part in the delayed 2020 Games in Tokyo, along with Brazil duo Neymar and Marquinhos, arguing that it would disrupt pre-season preparations following his participation in Euro 2020 earlier in the summer.

"Already, in 2020, for the Tokyo games, I wanted to participate, it was an objective but they quickly pulled the rug out from under my feet," he said of missing out on the competition."

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These Games will be in France, they are those of the centenary in Paris. It`s not the biggest competition in football, but you have to play the Games in your career. It is something unheard of when you are in love with sports," he added.

The Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be the biggest event ever organised in France. The Olympic games will take place from July 26 to August 11, 2024.&nbsp;

Paris Saint-Germain star forward Kylian Mbappe has announced his desire to represent France on home soil at the Paris Olympics in 2024. After not getting permission from his club to take part in Tokyo 2020, Mbappe has set eye on the gold medal in the next Games.

Paris Saint-Germain star forward Kylian Mbappe has announced his desire to represent France on home soil at the Paris Olympics in 2024. After not getting permission from his club to take part in Tokyo 2020, Mbappe has set eye on the gold medal in the next Games. The World Cup winner stated that he cannot miss out on the opportunity to represent his country in the Summer Games. "It was while watching the London Olympics in 2012 that I realized the importance of this global competition. The Games are "THE" benchmark for sport, the absolute holy grail that all sportsmen and women in the world want to compete in and experience at least once in their life," Mbappe stated in an open letter published in L`Equipe as per goal.com. ALSO READ: La Liga: Atletico Madrid held by lowly Levante after Enis Bardhi's late penalty Mbappe went on to explain how watching the London Games in 2012 inspired his dream of one day leading out France at the world`s biggest sporting event."That`s when I said to myself, I want to be there too. I want to experience the Paris Games. It`s a strong inner feeling, as if I were destined to participate in this huge celebration in my city, in my country, a hundred years after the last competition in France (the Summer Games). PSG refused Mbappe permission to take part in the delayed 2020 Games in Tokyo, along with Brazil duo Neymar and Marquinhos, arguing that it would disrupt pre-season preparations following his participation in Euro 2020 earlier in the summer. "Already, in 2020, for the Tokyo games, I wanted to participate, it was an objective but they quickly pulled the rug out from under my feet," he said of missing out on the competition." ALSO READ: Barcelona sack head coach Ronald Koeman after Rayo Vallecano defeat These Games will be in France, they are those of the centenary in Paris. It`s not the biggest competition in football, but you have to play the Games in your career. It is something unheard of when you are in love with sports," he added. The Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be the biggest event ever organised in France. The Olympic games will take place from July 26 to August 11, 2024.

Kylian Mbappe determined to represent France on home soil at the Paris Olympics in 2024

French footballer and Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe will be godfather of one of the panda twins born at the Beauval zoo at the beginning of August this year. Meanwhile, China's Zhang Jiaqi, gold medalist in 10-meter synchronised diving at the Tokyo Olympics, will be the godmother of the other baby panda.&nbsp;

Mbappe and Jiaqi will reveal the final Chinese names of the panda babies during an official ceremony scheduled for November 18. The panda babies are nicknamed Little Snow and Cotton Flower.&nbsp;

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"It's an honour for the zoo to have top athletes leaning over the pandas' cradle. And their involvement shines a light on the protection of threatened species protection and on the environment. The baby pandas are in good health, they weigh four kilos each, have opened their eyes and started to move" the zoo director Delphine Delord told AFP.&nbsp;

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Alors selon vous, qui est Petite Neige et qui est Fleur de Coton ? 👀🐼 Voici notre petite astuce pour différencier les jumelles <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/panda?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#panda</a> géant : Petite Neige a le bout de la truffe et le dessous de la gueule plus foncés que sa sœur Fleur de Coton ! <a href="https://t.co/2smg3qP1HZ">pic.twitter.com/2smg3qP1HZ</a>
— ZooParc de Beauval (@zoobeauval) <a href="https://twitter.com/zoobeauval/status/1450109610417868814?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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2 immenses champions pour parrainer nos bébés panda géant : <a href="https://twitter.com/KMbappe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KMbappe</a> et Zhang Jiaqi !🤩🐼⚽💦 On y croit à peine tellement c’est fou !😊 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/zoobeauval?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#zoobeauval</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/panda?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#panda</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mbappe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mbappe</a> <a href="https://t.co/GgvVFsuF6V">https://t.co/GgvVFsuF6V</a>
— ZooParc de Beauval (@zoobeauval) <a href="https://twitter.com/zoobeauval/status/1450735989748641796?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-stepping-stone-for-young-girls-says-india-football-star-bala-devi-ahead-of-afc-womens-asian-cup-2022-422360">'A stepping stone for young girls,' says India football star Bala Devi ahead of AFC Women's Asian Cup 2022</a>

"Through this official commitment to the two baby panda bears, these two great champions show their involvement in the protection of biodiversity. They are therefore committed to the animal kingdom by supporting our actions to protect and preserve endangered species," the official site of Beauval zoo wrote.&nbsp;

Only 2000 pandas remain alive in the wild although the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) removed them from the red list of endangered species in 2016. The cubs are the offspring of Yuan Zi and Huan Huan who were loaned to France by China a decade ago.&nbsp;

French footballer and Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe will be godfather of one of the panda twins born at the Beauval zoo at the beginning of August this year.

French footballer and Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe will be godfather of one of the panda twins born at the Beauval zoo at the beginning of August this year. Meanwhile, China's Zhang Jiaqi, gold medalist in 10-meter synchronised diving at the Tokyo Olympics, will be the godmother of the other baby panda. Mbappe and Jiaqi will reveal the final Chinese names of the panda babies during an official ceremony scheduled for November 18. The panda babies are nicknamed Little Snow and Cotton Flower. IN PICS | How much Cristiano Ronaldo earns per week? Mind-boggling salary of Manchester United star and his net worth "It's an honour for the zoo to have top athletes leaning over the pandas' cradle. And their involvement shines a light on the protection of threatened species protection and on the environment. The baby pandas are in good health, they weigh four kilos each, have opened their eyes and started to move" the zoo director Delphine Delord told AFP. Alors selon vous, qui est Petite Neige et qui est Fleur de Coton ? 👀🐼 Voici notre petite astuce pour différencier les jumelles #panda géant : Petite Neige a le bout de la truffe et le dessous de la gueule plus foncés que sa sœur Fleur de Coton ! pic.twitter.com/2smg3qP1HZ — ZooParc de Beauval (@zoobeauval) October 18, 2021 × 2 immenses champions pour parrainer nos bébés panda géant : @KMbappe et Zhang Jiaqi !🤩🐼⚽💦 On y croit à peine tellement c’est fou !😊 #zoobeauval #panda #Mbappe https://t.co/GgvVFsuF6V — ZooParc de Beauval (@zoobeauval) October 20, 2021 × ALSO READ | 'A stepping stone for young girls,' says India football star Bala Devi ahead of AFC Women's Asian Cup 2022 "Through this official commitment to the two baby panda bears, these two great champions show their involvement in the protection of biodiversity. They are therefore committed to the animal kingdom by supporting our actions to protect and preserve endangered species," the official site of Beauval zoo wrote. Only 2000 pandas remain alive in the wild although the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) removed them from the red list of endangered species in 2016. The cubs are the offspring of Yuan Zi and Huan Huan who were loaned to France by China a decade ago.

French footballer Kylian Mbappe will be godfather of one of the panda twins born at Beauval zoo

Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe starred for France as Les Bleus produced another stunning comeback to beat Spain 2-1 and win their first UEFA Nations League title at San Siro in Milan on Sunday.

These sides were both involved in semi-finals that thrilled from the off, but this occasion delivered a more cagey opening 45 minutes. Karim Benzema skipped around Unai Simon but failed to cut the ball back for a team-mate early on while Spain hoarded possession thereafter without threatening. Les Bleus did suffer a setback before the break, though, as Raphael Varane was forced off injured.

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The pattern continued until the game exploded into life in the 64th minute when Benzema`s cross was thumped against the underside of the bar by Theo Hernandez. Just 40 seconds later, however, France found themselves behind as Sergio Busquets` through ball was driven across Hugo Lloris by Mikel Oyarzabal. The touchpaper had been lit.

Indeed, La Roja`s joy proved short-lived, because Benzema curled a sensational effort into the far corner from 25 metres within two minutes. The question now was whether Didier Deschamps'&nbsp;men could repeat the trick they had performed against Belgium in the last four when they had come from two behind to win.

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The answer arrived on 80 minutes as the reigning world champions completed their second successive fightback. Kylian Mbappe timed his run on to Hernandez's pass to perfection and swept the winner underneath Unai Simon, though it required two fine late saves from Lloris to seal the silverware.

Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe starred for France as Les Bleus produced another stunning comeback to beat Spain 2-1 and win their first UEFA Nations League title at San Siro in Milan on Sunday.

Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe starred for France as Les Bleus produced another stunning comeback to beat Spain 2-1 and win their first UEFA Nations League title at San Siro in Milan on Sunday. These sides were both involved in semi-finals that thrilled from the off, but this occasion delivered a more cagey opening 45 minutes. Karim Benzema skipped around Unai Simon but failed to cut the ball back for a team-mate early on while Spain hoarded possession thereafter without threatening. Les Bleus did suffer a setback before the break, though, as Raphael Varane was forced off injured. ALSO READ: Nations League: Young Spain face France's forward threat in final The pattern continued until the game exploded into life in the 64th minute when Benzema`s cross was thumped against the underside of the bar by Theo Hernandez. Just 40 seconds later, however, France found themselves behind as Sergio Busquets` through ball was driven across Hugo Lloris by Mikel Oyarzabal. The touchpaper had been lit. Indeed, La Roja`s joy proved short-lived, because Benzema curled a sensational effort into the far corner from 25 metres within two minutes. The question now was whether Didier Deschamps' men could repeat the trick they had performed against Belgium in the last four when they had come from two behind to win. ALSO READ: Nations League: Nicolo Barella's spectacular goal helps Italy edge Belgium 2-1 to finish third The answer arrived on 80 minutes as the reigning world champions completed their second successive fightback. Kylian Mbappe timed his run on to Hernandez's pass to perfection and swept the winner underneath Unai Simon, though it required two fine late saves from Lloris to seal the silverware.

Nations League: France clinch title after Karim Benzema, Kylian Mbappe shine in comeback against Spain

Lionel Messi, who is considered as the favourite to win the Ballon d'Or award this year, revealed who he will vote for after France Football announced the names of 30 shortlisted players on Friday (October 8).

Lionel Messi, who is considered as the favourite to win the Ballon d'Or award this year, revealed who he will vote for after France Football announced the names of 30 shortlisted players on Friday (October 8). Six-time winner Messi and five-time winner Cristiano Ronaldo are on the list. Apart from the serial favourites, the competition includes Kylian Mbappe, Neymar, Karim Benzema, Jorginho and N'Golo Kante who are also considered as leading runners. However, Messi revealed his Ballon d’Or vote as he was quoted by France Football saying, "In my team, there are two for whom I will easily vote: Ney & Kylian. And then Lewandowski, who has just had a great year. There's also Benzema who has been excellent." ALSO READ | 'It was extremely hard to take': Lionel Messi on shocking Barcelona exit that 'changed' his plans The prestigious award was not handed out in 2020 due to the pandemic. There are also 20 women in the running for their own prize to be announced in Paris on November 29. French champions PSG can boast Messi, a winner in the Copa America this summer, and teammates Mbappe and Neymar who last season took the ambitious club to the Champions League last four. England, the Euro 2020 finalists, are represented by Harry Kane, Mason Mount, Phil Foden and Raheem Sterling. ALSO READ | COVID-19 'conspiracy theories' influence some players, says England coach Gareth Southgate Among the women, 2019 winner Megan Rapinoe, whose United States team were knocked out of the Olympics in the quarter-finals, was missing from the nominations. Christine Sinclair, of Olympic gold medal winning Canada, is in the running. Champions League winners Barcelona are represented by Alexia Putellas, already voted UEFA's best player, and Jennifer Hermoso, joint top-scorer in the Champions League. (With inputs from agencies)

Lionel Messi reveals his Ballon d'Or 2021 vote, says 'there are two for whom I will easily vote'

France striker Kylian Mbappe said he informed Paris St Germain in July that he wanted to leave so that the Ligue 1 club earned some money from the transfer and had time to find a replacement.

PSG turned down several bids from Real Madrid for Mbappe, who can leave as a free agent at the end of this season as his contract expires next June.

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"I asked to leave, because from the moment I did not want to extend (my contract), I wanted the club to have a transfer fee to find a quality replacement," the 22-year-old told RMC Sport in an interview that will be aired on Tuesday.

"It is a club that has given me a lot, I have always been happy, the four years I spent here, and I am still happy. I announced it early enough ... I said, if you don't want me to leave, I'll stay."

Mbappe denied he had turned down "six or seven" extension proposals.

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"People have said that I refused six or seven offers of extension, that I do not want to talk to (sporting director)Leonardo, this is absolutely not true. They told me 'Kylian now you talk with the president," he explained.

"Personally, I did not appreciate the fact that they said I came (with the news he wanted to leave) the last week of August. I said at the end of July that I wanted to go."

France striker Kylian Mbappe said he informed Paris St Germain in July that he wanted to leave so that the Ligue 1 club earned some money from the transfer and had time to find a replacement.

France striker Kylian Mbappe said he informed Paris St Germain in July that he wanted to leave so that the Ligue 1 club earned some money from the transfer and had time to find a replacement. PSG turned down several bids from Real Madrid for Mbappe, who can leave as a free agent at the end of this season as his contract expires next June. ALSO READ | 'A plot involving Bill Gates': Premier League players have bizarre 'conspiracy theories' about Covid and vaccines "I asked to leave, because from the moment I did not want to extend (my contract), I wanted the club to have a transfer fee to find a quality replacement," the 22-year-old told RMC Sport in an interview that will be aired on Tuesday. "It is a club that has given me a lot, I have always been happy, the four years I spent here, and I am still happy. I announced it early enough ... I said, if you don't want me to leave, I'll stay." Mbappe denied he had turned down "six or seven" extension proposals. ALSO READ | Klopp as Bond? Liverpool boss has his say on next 007 after Daniel Craig suggested he could be a good fit "People have said that I refused six or seven offers of extension, that I do not want to talk to (sporting director)Leonardo, this is absolutely not true. They told me 'Kylian now you talk with the president," he explained. "Personally, I did not appreciate the fact that they said I came (with the news he wanted to leave) the last week of August. I said at the end of July that I wanted to go."

Wanted PSG to have money for an ideal replacement: Kylian Mbappe opens up on his failed Real Madrid move

Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta in top 10 world's highest-paid footballers

Paris St Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino warned that it would take some time for his formidable attacking trio to shine after they disappointed in a 1-1 draw at Club Brugge in their Champions League opener on Wednesday. 
 
Lionel Messi hit the woodwork on his first start with PSG but he failed to add to his 120 goals in the competition, while Neymar was hugely disappointing and Kylian Mbappe limped off the pitch injured after setting up Ander Herrera for the opening goal. 
 
It was the first time the three attacking players were together on the field and they struggled to find each other and create space against a compact Belgian side. 
 
"It requires time for them to shine together," said Pochettino. "It requires work. I had made it clear that we`re not a team yet, we have to work for this." 
 
Messi and Neymar, starting on the flanks, left the fullbacks exposed and Brugge exploited the space with a strong collective performance as PSG`s midfield was almost non-existent in the absence of the injured Marco Verratti. 
 
That prompted Pochettino to replace Leandro Paredes with Danilo and Georginio Wijnaldum with Julian Draxler but to no effect. 
 
"We needed more consistency and more fluidity. We made too many mistakes," Pochettino explained. "But despite all this I`m satisfied with the players. We have to keep calm and keep working." 
 
PSG are two points behind Manchester City who demolished RB Leipzig 6-3, two weeks before the Ligue 1 side take on the Premier League champions at the Parc des Princes.

Paris St Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino warned that it would take some time for his formidable attacking trio to shine after they disappointed in a 1-1 draw at Club Brugge in their Champions League opener on Wednesday.

Paris St Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino warned that it would take some time for his formidable attacking trio to shine after they disappointed in a 1-1 draw at Club Brugge in their Champions League opener on Wednesday. Lionel Messi hit the woodwork on his first start with PSG but he failed to add to his 120 goals in the competition, while Neymar was hugely disappointing and Kylian Mbappe limped off the pitch injured after setting up Ander Herrera for the opening goal. It was the first time the three attacking players were together on the field and they struggled to find each other and create space against a compact Belgian side. "It requires time for them to shine together," said Pochettino. "It requires work. I had made it clear that we`re not a team yet, we have to work for this." Messi and Neymar, starting on the flanks, left the fullbacks exposed and Brugge exploited the space with a strong collective performance as PSG`s midfield was almost non-existent in the absence of the injured Marco Verratti. That prompted Pochettino to replace Leandro Paredes with Danilo and Georginio Wijnaldum with Julian Draxler but to no effect. "We needed more consistency and more fluidity. We made too many mistakes," Pochettino explained. "But despite all this I`m satisfied with the players. We have to keep calm and keep working." PSG are two points behind Manchester City who demolished RB Leipzig 6-3, two weeks before the Ligue 1 side take on the Premier League champions at the Parc des Princes.

It will take time for attacking trio to shine: PSG coach backs Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar

After a long wait, Lionel Messi finally made his debut for Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1 during the side's encounter versus Reims. While Messi finally wore the PSG jersey and came on as a substitute on Sunday,&nbsp;but it was Kylian Mbappe who stole the show by scoring twice in a 2-0 win against Reims.

Since Argentina's historic 1-0 win over Brazil in the Copa America final, on July 11, the Argentine hadn't&nbsp;returned back to the ground since arriving in Paris from Barcelona, a deal which got finalised almost three weeks ago. Thus, the six-time Ballon d'Or winner waited for sometime before he was brought on the field during the 66th minute and will now have to wait for his first goal with his new club, which might come when PSG host Clermont in their upcoming fixture on September 11.

"I'm very happy that he made his debut. It was very important for him," PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino told broadcaster Amazon Prime after Messi's low-key first appearance. He added, "He is still far away from his best form but he has been training well and he will be fit in the next two weeks, after the international break and, yes, we are waiting for the best from him."

Though fans were eagerly waiting for Messi's return to the field and for him to start his journey sans Barcelona, Mbappe has made the maximum noise prior to the game and also during the match versus Reims. With talks of him moving to Real Madrid gaining heat day by day, the France World Cup-winner showed no signs of being distracted and scored both the goals on Sunday.

Pochettino said of Mbappe's future, "Kylian is our player and you know that in football and in business there is always gossip and rumours.&nbsp;I think our president and our sporting director were very clear and he is still here. I am really happy to have Kylian. He is one of the best, one of the most important players in the world today and for him to be with us is a gift."

After a long wait, Lionel Messi finally made his debut for Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1 during the side's encounter versus Reims. While Messi finally wore the PSG jersey and came on as a substitute on Sunday, but it was Kylian Mbappe who stole the show by scoring twice in a 2-0 win against Reims.

After a long wait, Lionel Messi finally made his debut for Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1 during the side's encounter versus Reims. While Messi finally wore the PSG jersey and came on as a substitute on Sunday, but it was Kylian Mbappe who stole the show by scoring twice in a 2-0 win against Reims. Since Argentina's historic 1-0 win over Brazil in the Copa America final, on July 11, the Argentine hadn't returned back to the ground since arriving in Paris from Barcelona, a deal which got finalised almost three weeks ago. Thus, the six-time Ballon d'Or winner waited for sometime before he was brought on the field during the 66th minute and will now have to wait for his first goal with his new club, which might come when PSG host Clermont in their upcoming fixture on September 11. "I'm very happy that he made his debut. It was very important for him," PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino told broadcaster Amazon Prime after Messi's low-key first appearance. He added, "He is still far away from his best form but he has been training well and he will be fit in the next two weeks, after the international break and, yes, we are waiting for the best from him." Though fans were eagerly waiting for Messi's return to the field and for him to start his journey sans Barcelona, Mbappe has made the maximum noise prior to the game and also during the match versus Reims. With talks of him moving to Real Madrid gaining heat day by day, the France World Cup-winner showed no signs of being distracted and scored both the goals on Sunday. Pochettino said of Mbappe's future, "Kylian is our player and you know that in football and in business there is always gossip and rumours. I think our president and our sporting director were very clear and he is still here. I am really happy to have Kylian. He is one of the best, one of the most important players in the world today and for him to be with us is a gift."

Lionel Messi makes his debut in Ligue 1 as Kylian Mbappe steals the show with twin strikes in PSG's 2-0 win vs Reims

Real Madrid are pretty adamant to sign French star Kylian Mbappe as they have offered €170m (£146m) for the player to Paris-Saint Germain after their previous bid got rejected by the Ligue 1 giants, as per Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-likely-to-submit-bid-for-juventus-superstar-cristiano-ronaldo-reports-408699" hreflang="en">Manchester City likely to submit bid for Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo: Reports</a>

Previously, the LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has rejected the offer for the 22-year-old terming it "not sufficient".&nbsp;

PSG's sporting director Leonardo told BFM and RMC Sport, saying the offer was “not sufficient”.&nbsp;

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Official bid from Real Madrid for Kylian Mbappé still on the table. €170m plus €10m and this will be the final one. Negotiations will take place today between PSG and Real. ⚪️🇫🇷 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RealMadrid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RealMadrid</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mbapp%C3%A9?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mbappé</a> 
 
Real Madrid know that Mbappé is pushing. He only wants Real Madrid. Patience. <a href="https://t.co/FOj231gw6J">pic.twitter.com/FOj231gw6J</a>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1431015068335026181?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Leonardo also added that PSG's goal is to extend Mbappe's stay with the club and if he wants to leave the club it should be on their terms.&nbsp;

“Kylian Mbappé feels like leaving, this seems clear to me … Our goal is to extend and keep him. If a player wants to leave it must be under our terms. This applies not just to Kylian but to all players.”

Leonardo did not confirm the figure of €160m but said the bid was “around that”. “We consider the offer as being very far from what Kylian is worth today,” he added.

Kylian Mbappe is set to run out of contract with the club and has refused to sign to extend his stay with PSG.&nbsp;

Mbappe has scored 133 goals in just 174 games for the club in all competitions. He joined PSG from Monaco on an initial season-long loan in 2017 and was signed permanently for £165.7 million a year later.&nbsp;

Earlier, PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi will be willing to let go of Mbappe if his £171m (€200m) valuation is met.&nbsp;

Real Madrid are pretty adamant to sign French star Kylian Mbappe as they have offered €170m (£146m) for the player to Paris-Saint Germain after their previous bid got rejected by the Ligue 1 giants, as per Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.

Real Madrid are pretty adamant to sign French star Kylian Mbappe as they have offered €170m (£146m) for the player to Paris-Saint Germain after their previous bid got rejected by the Ligue 1 giants, as per Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. ALSO READ: Manchester City likely to submit bid for Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo: Reports Previously, the LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has rejected the offer for the 22-year-old terming it "not sufficient". PSG's sporting director Leonardo told BFM and RMC Sport, saying the offer was “not sufficient”. Official bid from Real Madrid for Kylian Mbappé still on the table. €170m plus €10m and this will be the final one. Negotiations will take place today between PSG and Real. ⚪️🇫🇷 #RealMadrid #Mbappé Real Madrid know that Mbappé is pushing. He only wants Real Madrid. Patience. pic.twitter.com/FOj231gw6J — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 26, 2021 × Leonardo also added that PSG's goal is to extend Mbappe's stay with the club and if he wants to leave the club it should be on their terms. “Kylian Mbappé feels like leaving, this seems clear to me … Our goal is to extend and keep him. If a player wants to leave it must be under our terms. This applies not just to Kylian but to all players.” Leonardo did not confirm the figure of €160m but said the bid was “around that”. “We consider the offer as being very far from what Kylian is worth today,” he added. Kylian Mbappe is set to run out of contract with the club and has refused to sign to extend his stay with PSG. Mbappe has scored 133 goals in just 174 games for the club in all competitions. He joined PSG from Monaco on an initial season-long loan in 2017 and was signed permanently for £165.7 million a year later. Earlier, PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi will be willing to let go of Mbappe if his £171m (€200m) valuation is met.

La Liga giants Real Madrid places new bid for PSG star Kylian Mbappe: Reports

Paris Saint-Germain received a massive bid from Real Madrid for their young superstar Kylian Mbappe. The LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has&nbsp;rejected the offer for the 22-year-old.&nbsp;

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PSG's sporting director Leonardo told BFM and RMC Sport, saying the offer was “not sufficient”.&nbsp;

Leonardo also added that PSG's goal is to extend Mbappe's stay with the club and if he wants to leave the club it should be on their terms.&nbsp;

“Kylian Mbappé feels like leaving, this seems clear to me … Our goal is to extend and keep him. If a player wants to leave it must be under our terms. This applies not just to Kylian but to all players.”

Leonardo did not confirm the figure of €160m but said the bid was “around that”. “We consider the offer as being very far from what Kylian is worth today,” he added.

Kylian Mbappe is set to run out of contract with the club and has refused to sign to extend his stay with PSG.&nbsp;

Mbappe has scored 133 goals in just 174 games for the club in all competitions. He joined PSG from Monaco on an initial season-long loan in 2017 and was signed permanently for £165.7 million a year later.&nbsp;

According to reports, PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi will be willing to let go of Mbappe if his £171m (€200m) valuation is met.&nbsp;

Recently, football star Lionel Messi joined the club after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG with the option of an additional year.

The move will add the Argentine, one of the best players of his generation, to an already formidable PSG attack that includes Brazil's Neymar and French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe.

Paris Saint-Germain received a massive bid from Real Madrid for their young superstar Kylian Mbappe. The LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has rejected the offer for the 22-year-old.

Paris Saint-Germain received a massive bid from Real Madrid for their young superstar Kylian Mbappe. The LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has rejected the offer for the 22-year-old. ALSO READ: Pep Guardiola set to leave Manchester City in 2023 PSG's sporting director Leonardo told BFM and RMC Sport, saying the offer was “not sufficient”. Leonardo also added that PSG's goal is to extend Mbappe's stay with the club and if he wants to leave the club it should be on their terms. “Kylian Mbappé feels like leaving, this seems clear to me … Our goal is to extend and keep him. If a player wants to leave it must be under our terms. This applies not just to Kylian but to all players.” Leonardo did not confirm the figure of €160m but said the bid was “around that”. “We consider the offer as being very far from what Kylian is worth today,” he added. Kylian Mbappe is set to run out of contract with the club and has refused to sign to extend his stay with PSG. Mbappe has scored 133 goals in just 174 games for the club in all competitions. He joined PSG from Monaco on an initial season-long loan in 2017 and was signed permanently for £165.7 million a year later. According to reports, PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi will be willing to let go of Mbappe if his £171m (€200m) valuation is met. Recently, football star Lionel Messi joined the club after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG with the option of an additional year. The move will add the Argentine, one of the best players of his generation, to an already formidable PSG attack that includes Brazil's Neymar and French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe.

'Not sufficient': Paris Saint-Germain reject Real Madrid's massive bid for Kylian Mbappe

France World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe netted with a superb header to help Paris St Germain to a 4-2 win at Brest on Friday which lifted them to the top of Ligue 1 with a maximum nine points from three games.

PSG again showed scoring prowess as they have now netted 10 goals in the opening three games, and that is even before new signing Lionel Messi has made his highly-anticipated debut. Manager Mauricio Pochettino said there was still work to be done in order to make sure his side amounted to the sum of talented parts.

"We have a unit full of shining names and the main challenge is to gel them into a unit so that everyone is at the team's service," the Argentine told a news conference.

"It's difficult, you need work to get a strong team. We struggled a bit in the closing stages but I am happy that we came away with three points against a very good team."

Ander Herrera fired PSG ahead with a 23rd-minute volley before Mbappe made it 2-0 in the 36th when he powered his effort past home goalkeeper Marco Bizot from 10 metres after latching on to a rebound from Georginio Wijnaldum's shot.

Franck Honorat pulled one back for the home side with a crisp finish in the 42nd minute after a slick move, with Steve Mounie holding up the ball well to set up Romain Faivre who released Honorat with a clever back-heel.

The pace dropped after the break before midfielder Idrissa Gueye restored PSG's two-goal advantage in the 73rd minute with a rasping shot from 35 metres which beat Bizot inside the near post, although the keeper should have done better.

Brest missed a pair of chances in the 77th as visiting keeper Kaylor Navas parried a Ronael Pierre-Gabriel shot and Honorat rattled the woodwork with the rebound.

The visiting defence continued to look shaky and Mounie set up a tense finish when he reduced the arrears in the 85th minute as he drilled in his shot under Navas after another fine assist from Faivre.

PSG were forced to hang on in the closing stages before substitute Angel Di Maria sealed their win in stoppage time with a sublime lob from the edge of the penalty area as the visitors broke away after a Brest corner.

It was a second successive win for PSG without Messi, who has yet to feature for the French giants after joining them from Barcelona earlier this month.

Messi was presented to PSG fans before last Saturday's 4-2 home win over Strasbourg but was not in the squad either for that fixture or the win at Brest, having taken a month off after steering Argentina to the Copa America title in July.

On Saturday, Monaco are at home to Lens while champions Lille, who have taken one point from their opening two games, visit St Etienne.

France World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe netted with a superb header to help Paris St Germain to a 4-2 win at Brest on Friday which lifted them to the top of Ligue 1 with a maximum nine points from three games.

France World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe netted with a superb header to help Paris St Germain to a 4-2 win at Brest on Friday which lifted them to the top of Ligue 1 with a maximum nine points from three games. PSG again showed scoring prowess as they have now netted 10 goals in the opening three games, and that is even before new signing Lionel Messi has made his highly-anticipated debut. Manager Mauricio Pochettino said there was still work to be done in order to make sure his side amounted to the sum of talented parts. "We have a unit full of shining names and the main challenge is to gel them into a unit so that everyone is at the team's service," the Argentine told a news conference. "It's difficult, you need work to get a strong team. We struggled a bit in the closing stages but I am happy that we came away with three points against a very good team." Ander Herrera fired PSG ahead with a 23rd-minute volley before Mbappe made it 2-0 in the 36th when he powered his effort past home goalkeeper Marco Bizot from 10 metres after latching on to a rebound from Georginio Wijnaldum's shot. Franck Honorat pulled one back for the home side with a crisp finish in the 42nd minute after a slick move, with Steve Mounie holding up the ball well to set up Romain Faivre who released Honorat with a clever back-heel. The pace dropped after the break before midfielder Idrissa Gueye restored PSG's two-goal advantage in the 73rd minute with a rasping shot from 35 metres which beat Bizot inside the near post, although the keeper should have done better. Brest missed a pair of chances in the 77th as visiting keeper Kaylor Navas parried a Ronael Pierre-Gabriel shot and Honorat rattled the woodwork with the rebound. The visiting defence continued to look shaky and Mounie set up a tense finish when he reduced the arrears in the 85th minute as he drilled in his shot under Navas after another fine assist from Faivre. PSG were forced to hang on in the closing stages before substitute Angel Di Maria sealed their win in stoppage time with a sublime lob from the edge of the penalty area as the visitors broke away after a Brest corner. It was a second successive win for PSG without Messi, who has yet to feature for the French giants after joining them from Barcelona earlier this month. Messi was presented to PSG fans before last Saturday's 4-2 home win over Strasbourg but was not in the squad either for that fixture or the win at Brest, having taken a month off after steering Argentina to the Copa America title in July. On Saturday, Monaco are at home to Lens while champions Lille, who have taken one point from their opening two games, visit St Etienne.

Kylian Mbappe strikes as Paris St Germain beat Brest to go top

Lionel&nbsp;Messi said on Wednesday that he is&nbsp;'extremely happy' after joining&nbsp;star-packed French football club Paris St Germain and added that his aim is to win the Champions League for the team.

The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG on Tuesday with the option of an additional year.

"Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," said&nbsp;Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday.

"I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes."

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The move will add the Argentine, one of the best players of his generation, to an already formidable PSG attack that includes Brazil's Neymar and French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe.

In pics |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-lionel-messi-to-sergio-ramos-paris-saint-germain-fifa-like-playing-xi-for-upcoming-ligue-1-season-404576" hreflang="en">From Lionel Messi to Sergio Ramos: PSG's 'FIFA-like' playing XI for upcoming season</a>

The arrival of Barcelona's record scorer, with 672 goals, will boost Qatari-owned PSG's ambitions to win the prestigious, and lucrative, European Champions League for the first time.

Nasser al-Khelaifi, the president and CEO of Paris St Germain, said it was an "amazing and historic day" to present Lionel&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;as a player for the French soccer powerhouse.

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🎙 President Nasser Al-Khelaïfi: “I am delighted that Lionel Messi has chosen to join Paris Saint-Germain and we are proud to welcome him to Paris, with his family. "<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGxMESSI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGxMESSI</a> <a href="https://t.co/RXclKJMoE8">https://t.co/RXclKJMoE8</a>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1425385858400718848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"He makes football magic, beautiful. He is a winner," al-Khelaifi told a news conference.

French Football League president Vincent Labrune hailed the surprise arrival of the six-time Ballon d'Or winner as "extraordinary news for the exposure of Ligue 1 internationally".

PSG wasted little time in targeting&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;after the heavily indebted Catalan club made clear it could not afford to keep him because of La Liga's financial fair play rules.

Crowds of supporters thronged to the club's Parc des Princes stadium, chanting and setting off smoke flares.

Neymar and Mbappe were already the two most expensive soccer players in history, and the addition of&nbsp;Messi&nbsp;to Mauricio Pochettino's PSG line-up could rival the unstoppable triumvirate that he formed at Barcelona with Neymar and Luis Suarez.

Messi&nbsp;will wear the number 30 shirt, the club confirmed in a video posted on its Twitter feed, headlined "a new diamond in Paris".

Messi, who won four Champions Leagues and 10 domestic league titles with Barcelona, joins several other big names arriving at PSG on a free transfer this summer.

Spain defender Sergio Ramos was no longer wanted at Real Madrid, Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum had run down his contract with Liverpool and Italy's Euro 2020-winning goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma also joined after his contract with AC Milan ran out.

The arrival of&nbsp;Messi, whose last contract with Barcelona was worth a total of 555 million euros ($650 million) and reported to be the most lucrative in world sport, is also set to provoke a renewed new debate about UEFA's financial fair play rules.

Soccer's European governing body introduced the rules in 2009 in an attempt to restrict the power of free-spending owners to buy success, but their success is debatable.

The star-power of&nbsp;Messi, who has 245 million followers on Instagram, will be welcome news for Ligue 1 as a battle rages between broadcasters over the price of its television rights, crucial to the finances of the clubs.

(With inputs from agencies)

Lionel Messi said on Wednesday that he is 'extremely happy' after joining star-packed French football club Paris St Germain and added that his aim is to win the Champions League for the team.

Lionel Messi said on Wednesday that he is 'extremely happy' after joining star-packed French football club Paris St Germain and added that his aim is to win the Champions League for the team. The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG on Tuesday with the option of an additional year. "Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," said Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday. "I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Paris Saint-Germain (@psg) The move will add the Argentine, one of the best players of his generation, to an already formidable PSG attack that includes Brazil's Neymar and French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe. In pics | From Lionel Messi to Sergio Ramos: PSG's 'FIFA-like' playing XI for upcoming season The arrival of Barcelona's record scorer, with 672 goals, will boost Qatari-owned PSG's ambitions to win the prestigious, and lucrative, European Champions League for the first time. Nasser al-Khelaifi, the president and CEO of Paris St Germain, said it was an "amazing and historic day" to present Lionel Messi as a player for the French soccer powerhouse. 🎙 President Nasser Al-Khelaïfi: “I am delighted that Lionel Messi has chosen to join Paris Saint-Germain and we are proud to welcome him to Paris, with his family. "#PSGxMESSI https://t.co/RXclKJMoE8 — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) August 11, 2021 × "He makes football magic, beautiful. He is a winner," al-Khelaifi told a news conference. French Football League president Vincent Labrune hailed the surprise arrival of the six-time Ballon d'Or winner as "extraordinary news for the exposure of Ligue 1 internationally". PSG wasted little time in targeting Messi after the heavily indebted Catalan club made clear it could not afford to keep him because of La Liga's financial fair play rules. Crowds of supporters thronged to the club's Parc des Princes stadium, chanting and setting off smoke flares. Neymar and Mbappe were already the two most expensive soccer players in history, and the addition of Messi to Mauricio Pochettino's PSG line-up could rival the unstoppable triumvirate that he formed at Barcelona with Neymar and Luis Suarez. Messi will wear the number 30 shirt, the club confirmed in a video posted on its Twitter feed, headlined "a new diamond in Paris". Messi, who won four Champions Leagues and 10 domestic league titles with Barcelona, joins several other big names arriving at PSG on a free transfer this summer. Spain defender Sergio Ramos was no longer wanted at Real Madrid, Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum had run down his contract with Liverpool and Italy's Euro 2020-winning goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma also joined after his contract with AC Milan ran out. The arrival of Messi, whose last contract with Barcelona was worth a total of 555 million euros ($650 million) and reported to be the most lucrative in world sport, is also set to provoke a renewed new debate about UEFA's financial fair play rules. Soccer's European governing body introduced the rules in 2009 in an attempt to restrict the power of free-spending owners to buy success, but their success is debatable. The star-power of Messi, who has 245 million followers on Instagram, will be welcome news for Ligue 1 as a battle rages between broadcasters over the price of its television rights, crucial to the finances of the clubs. (With inputs from agencies)

Lionel Messi 'extremely happy' after joining PSG, dreams of Champions League win

French striker Kylian Mbappe has apologised for missing a crucial penalty due to which France crashed out of the Euro 2020 on Monday. The French striker failed to find the back of the net during the penalty shootout against Switzerland.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-switzerland-beat-france-on-penalties-to-reach-euro-2020-last-eight-394631" hreflang="en">Euro 2020: Switzerland beat France on penalties to reach Euro 2020 last eight</a>

The 22-yer-old striker said that France were "incredibly sad" after exiting the tournament and that his miss would keep him awake at night.

"I'm sorry about this penalty. I wanted to help the team but I failed," Mbappe wrote on Instagram.

"It's going to be hard to sleep after this, but unfortunately these are the ups and downs of this sport that I love so much.

"The most important [thing] will be to get back up again even stronger for future commitments. Congratulations and good luck to the Swiss team."

Earlier, French head coach Didier Deschamps defended the PSG star and said that no one was angry at him.&nbsp;

"It will help everyone I think. Kylian, even if he didn't score a goal [at the Euros], he was decisive in many actions that we had, and he took responsibility to take this penalty," he told a news conference.

"No-one is really angry with him. I talked to our players, we know the strength of this team, we've had many magnificent moments together -- today it really hurts, there's lots of sadness," he added.

"The whole group is united in the dressing room. No-one talks about 'you made this mistake' or 'you made that mistake', Kylian knows his responsibility," added Deschamps.

"Today we were against a strong Swiss team, they gave us some problems in the first half, and of course France is used to having compact opponents," Deschamps explained.

"We scored our second goal in the second half which changed everything and, if you want, 10 minutes before the end we could have managed our two-goal advantage better."

French striker Kylian Mbappe has apologised for missing a crucial penalty due to which France crashed out of the Euro 2020 on Monday. The French striker failed to find the back of the net during the penalty shootout against Switzerland.

French striker Kylian Mbappe has apologised for missing a crucial penalty due to which France crashed out of the Euro 2020 on Monday. The French striker failed to find the back of the net during the penalty shootout against Switzerland. ALSO READ: Euro 2020: Switzerland beat France on penalties to reach Euro 2020 last eight The 22-yer-old striker said that France were "incredibly sad" after exiting the tournament and that his miss would keep him awake at night. "I'm sorry about this penalty. I wanted to help the team but I failed," Mbappe wrote on Instagram. "It's going to be hard to sleep after this, but unfortunately these are the ups and downs of this sport that I love so much. "The most important [thing] will be to get back up again even stronger for future commitments. Congratulations and good luck to the Swiss team." Earlier, French head coach Didier Deschamps defended the PSG star and said that no one was angry at him. "It will help everyone I think. Kylian, even if he didn't score a goal [at the Euros], he was decisive in many actions that we had, and he took responsibility to take this penalty," he told a news conference. "No-one is really angry with him. I talked to our players, we know the strength of this team, we've had many magnificent moments together -- today it really hurts, there's lots of sadness," he added. "The whole group is united in the dressing room. No-one talks about 'you made this mistake' or 'you made that mistake', Kylian knows his responsibility," added Deschamps. "Today we were against a strong Swiss team, they gave us some problems in the first half, and of course France is used to having compact opponents," Deschamps explained. "We scored our second goal in the second half which changed everything and, if you want, 10 minutes before the end we could have managed our two-goal advantage better."

Euro 2020- 'Wanted to help the team but I failed': Kylian Mbappe apologises for missing penalty

Striker Kylian Mbappe will bounce back from missing the decisive penalty in France's shootout loss to Switzerland on Monday that saw the world champions exit Euro 2020 at the last-16 stage, coach Didier Deschamps said.

The French threw away a two-goal lead to draw 3-3 in normal time, and after a goalless extra time, they crashed out when Mbappe's penalty was saved by Swiss keeper Yann Sommer.

Deschamps said the striker and the rest of the team would learn from their tournament disappointment

"It will help everyone I think. Kylian, even if he didn't score a goal (at the Euros), he was decisive in many actions that we had, and he took responsibility to take this penalty," he told a news conference.

"No one is really angry with him. I talked to our players, we know the strength of this team, we've had many magnificent moments together -- today it really hurts, there's lots of sadness," he added.

The 52-year-old coach dismissed suggestions none of Mbappe's teammates went to comfort him after his spot-kick was saved.

"The whole group is united in the dressing room. No-one talks about 'you made this mistake' or 'you made that mistake', Kylian knows his responsibility," added Deschamps.

France were 3-1 up and cruising with 15 minutes to go after a superb goal by Paul Pogba, but the dogged Swiss scored twice to force extra time before eventually going through to face Spain in the quarter-finals in St Petersburg on Friday.

"Today we were against a strong Swiss team, they gave us some problems in the first half, and of course France is used to having compact opponents," Deschamps explained.

"We scored our second goal in the second half which changed everything and, if you want, 10 minutes before the end we could have managed our two-goal advantage better."

Kingsley Coman hit the bar in the final seconds of normal time as luck seemed to desert the world champions when they needed it most, but Deschamps was not complaining.

"In extra time there were some final chances that we had, and penalties are always like that. It hurts, but you have to accept it -- that's&nbsp;football," he said.

"Mostly we're on the good end, but today we're not and everyone is really sad. Everyone is really disappointed."

Striker Kylian Mbappe will bounce back from missing the decisive penalty in France's shootout loss to Switzerland on Monday that saw the world champions exit Euro 2020 at the last-16 stage, coach Didier Deschamps said.

Striker Kylian Mbappe will bounce back from missing the decisive penalty in France's shootout loss to Switzerland on Monday that saw the world champions exit Euro 2020 at the last-16 stage, coach Didier Deschamps said. The French threw away a two-goal lead to draw 3-3 in normal time, and after a goalless extra time, they crashed out when Mbappe's penalty was saved by Swiss keeper Yann Sommer. Deschamps said the striker and the rest of the team would learn from their tournament disappointment "It will help everyone I think. Kylian, even if he didn't score a goal (at the Euros), he was decisive in many actions that we had, and he took responsibility to take this penalty," he told a news conference. "No one is really angry with him. I talked to our players, we know the strength of this team, we've had many magnificent moments together -- today it really hurts, there's lots of sadness," he added. The 52-year-old coach dismissed suggestions none of Mbappe's teammates went to comfort him after his spot-kick was saved. "The whole group is united in the dressing room. No-one talks about 'you made this mistake' or 'you made that mistake', Kylian knows his responsibility," added Deschamps. France were 3-1 up and cruising with 15 minutes to go after a superb goal by Paul Pogba, but the dogged Swiss scored twice to force extra time before eventually going through to face Spain in the quarter-finals in St Petersburg on Friday. "Today we were against a strong Swiss team, they gave us some problems in the first half, and of course France is used to having compact opponents," Deschamps explained. "We scored our second goal in the second half which changed everything and, if you want, 10 minutes before the end we could have managed our two-goal advantage better." Kingsley Coman hit the bar in the final seconds of normal time as luck seemed to desert the world champions when they needed it most, but Deschamps was not complaining. "In extra time there were some final chances that we had, and penalties are always like that. It hurts, but you have to accept it -- that's football," he said. "Mostly we're on the good end, but today we're not and everyone is really sad. Everyone is really disappointed."

Euro 2020: Kylian Mbappe will bounce back after penalty miss, says Didier Deschamps

Kylian Mbappe admitted he was "affected" by public comments perceived as criticism from fellow forward Olivier Giroud following a friendly against Bulgaria, but insisted he did not want it to become a distraction for France at Euro 2020.

Tensions surfaced between the two players after Chelsea striker Giroud complained about not receiving the ball often enough during Tuesday's 3-0 win over Bulgaria, in which he scored twice.

"I was a bit affected by that but we're not going to make a big story about it," Mbappe told reporters Sunday at the national training centre at Clairefontaine.

"We're here to represent France and the national team represents the most important thing. We have a big competition and these trivial things aren't going to disrupt our preparation."

Mbappe, the leading scorer in Ligue 1 last season with 27 goals, revealed he had wanted to address the matter earlier in the week but was dissuaded from doing so by France coach Didier Deschamps.

"I wanted to come Thursday (to the press conference) to explain myself. After speaking with the coach, it wasn't the best moment," said the 22-year-old.

"He decided the best time was today, so I did as I was told and came today."

The Paris Saint-Germain star claimed it wasn't what Giroud said that bothered him, but the public nature of his remarks.

"I saw him in the dressing room, I went to congratulate him on his goals. He didn't say anything to me and then I learned about it in the media.

"I would have preferred that he come and even be much more scathing about it. In the dressing room if I have something to say to someone I will tell them and it stays there, I don't have a problem."

But Mbappe sought to draw a line under the brewing feud ahead of France's tournament opener against Germany in Munich on Tuesday.

"I don't want that to disturb the team. We will already have very difficult tests, we don't need to make things even harder."

Giroud, 34, is France's second highest scorer of all time, his 46 goals second only to Thierry Henry (51).

The world champions have a wealth of attacking options though with the return of Karim Benzema to the squad following a five-and-a-half year exile, and Antoine Griezmann also in the squad.

Les Bleus take on Hungary in Budapest in their second match in Group F and then face defending champions Portugal at the Puskas Arena on June 19 in a repeat of the 2016 final.

Kylian Mbappe admitted he was "affected" by public comments perceived as criticism from fellow forward Olivier Giroud following a friendly against Bulgaria, but insisted he did not want it to become a distraction for France at Euro 2020.

Kylian Mbappe admitted he was "affected" by public comments perceived as criticism from fellow forward Olivier Giroud following a friendly against Bulgaria, but insisted he did not want it to become a distraction for France at Euro 2020. Tensions surfaced between the two players after Chelsea striker Giroud complained about not receiving the ball often enough during Tuesday's 3-0 win over Bulgaria, in which he scored twice. "I was a bit affected by that but we're not going to make a big story about it," Mbappe told reporters Sunday at the national training centre at Clairefontaine. "We're here to represent France and the national team represents the most important thing. We have a big competition and these trivial things aren't going to disrupt our preparation." Mbappe, the leading scorer in Ligue 1 last season with 27 goals, revealed he had wanted to address the matter earlier in the week but was dissuaded from doing so by France coach Didier Deschamps. "I wanted to come Thursday (to the press conference) to explain myself. After speaking with the coach, it wasn't the best moment," said the 22-year-old. "He decided the best time was today, so I did as I was told and came today." The Paris Saint-Germain star claimed it wasn't what Giroud said that bothered him, but the public nature of his remarks. "I saw him in the dressing room, I went to congratulate him on his goals. He didn't say anything to me and then I learned about it in the media. "I would have preferred that he come and even be much more scathing about it. In the dressing room if I have something to say to someone I will tell them and it stays there, I don't have a problem." But Mbappe sought to draw a line under the brewing feud ahead of France's tournament opener against Germany in Munich on Tuesday. "I don't want that to disturb the team. We will already have very difficult tests, we don't need to make things even harder." Giroud, 34, is France's second highest scorer of all time, his 46 goals second only to Thierry Henry (51). The world champions have a wealth of attacking options though with the return of Karim Benzema to the squad following a five-and-a-half year exile, and Antoine Griezmann also in the squad. Les Bleus take on Hungary in Budapest in their second match in Group F and then face defending champions Portugal at the Puskas Arena on June 19 in a repeat of the 2016 final.

Football: Mbappe 'affected' by Giroud criticism but keen to move on

Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has stayed buoyant about keeping Kylian Mbappe at the club. He has precluded the chance of Kylian Mbappe leaving on free exchange and claims he won't ever sell the forward in the midst of the consistent theory connecting him to Liverpool.&nbsp;

The Frenchman has been connected with a transition to Real Madrid and Liverpool as he has quite recently a year staying on his present agreement.&nbsp;

Agreement augmentations haven't advanced well, and almost certainly, the club and the player will plunk down after the Euros to begin talks once more.&nbsp;

"I will be clear; Mbappe is going to stay in Paris. We will never sell I'm and he will never leave on a free [transfer]. Mbappe has everything he needs in Paris. Where can he go? What club, in terms of ambition, can compete with PSG today?"All I can say is that things are going well, and I hope we can reach an agreement [on a new contract]. This is Paris, this is his country. He has a mission, not only to play football but to promote Ligue 1, his country, and his capital," Al-Khelaifi told L'Equipe.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-yuvraj-singh-reveals-why-india-will-have-slight-disadvantage-in-wtc-final-vs-new-zealand-389893" hreflang="en">Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have "slight disadvantage" in WTC Final vs New Zealand</a>

Real Madrid is required to be occupied in the late spring move window. Real Madrid went trophy-less the previous summer and needed capability upfront and center as they missed the mark in the alliance and cup contests.&nbsp;

Albeit new Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is relied upon to hand freedoms to a portion of the players censured by previous chief Zinedine Zidane, the club could sign some new faces this mid-year.&nbsp;

Mbappe's agreement circumstance is probably going to draw in admirers, however not a ton of clubs can bear the cost of his high wages.&nbsp;

Real Madrid also should dispose of a portion of their high workers to oblige Kylian Mbappe without breaking their compensation structure.&nbsp;

The COVID-19 pandemic has left clubs in a troublesome monetary circumstance, so notwithstanding Kylian Mbappe's unsafe agreement circumstance, it won't be simply marking him. The Frenchman is additionally drawing in interest from Liverpool, however, it stays not yet clear if their advantage is certified.&nbsp;

Kylian Mbappe scored 27 times in Ligue 1 last season and got the golden boot for the third year in a row.

Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has stayed buoyant about keeping Kylian Mbappe at the club. He has precluded the chance of Kylian Mbappe leaving on free exchange and claims he won't ever sell the forward in the midst of the consistent theory connecting him to Liverpool.

Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has stayed buoyant about keeping Kylian Mbappe at the club. He has precluded the chance of Kylian Mbappe leaving on free exchange and claims he won't ever sell the forward in the midst of the consistent theory connecting him to Liverpool. The Frenchman has been connected with a transition to Real Madrid and Liverpool as he has quite recently a year staying on his present agreement. Agreement augmentations haven't advanced well, and almost certainly, the club and the player will plunk down after the Euros to begin talks once more. "I will be clear; Mbappe is going to stay in Paris. We will never sell I'm and he will never leave on a free [transfer]. Mbappe has everything he needs in Paris. Where can he go? What club, in terms of ambition, can compete with PSG today?"All I can say is that things are going well, and I hope we can reach an agreement [on a new contract]. This is Paris, this is his country. He has a mission, not only to play football but to promote Ligue 1, his country, and his capital," Al-Khelaifi told L'Equipe. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have "slight disadvantage" in WTC Final vs New Zealand Real Madrid is required to be occupied in the late spring move window. Real Madrid went trophy-less the previous summer and needed capability upfront and center as they missed the mark in the alliance and cup contests. Albeit new Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is relied upon to hand freedoms to a portion of the players censured by previous chief Zinedine Zidane, the club could sign some new faces this mid-year. Mbappe's agreement circumstance is probably going to draw in admirers, however not a ton of clubs can bear the cost of his high wages. Real Madrid also should dispose of a portion of their high workers to oblige Kylian Mbappe without breaking their compensation structure. The COVID-19 pandemic has left clubs in a troublesome monetary circumstance, so notwithstanding Kylian Mbappe's unsafe agreement circumstance, it won't be simply marking him. The Frenchman is additionally drawing in interest from Liverpool, however, it stays not yet clear if their advantage is certified. Kylian Mbappe scored 27 times in Ligue 1 last season and got the golden boot for the third year in a row.

Football: PSG president Al-Khelaifi breaks silence on Kylian Mbappe's future

Kylian Mbappe set up the first goal and grabbed one of his own as Paris St Germain retained the French Cup with a 2-0 victory over Monaco in Wednesday’s final at the Stade de France.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-must-maintain-focus-to-seal-top-four-finish-phillips-386167" hreflang="en">Liverpool must maintain focus to seal top-four finish: Phillips</a>

Quick thinking by Mbappe to dispose of&nbsp;Axel Disasi in his own penalty area, as the Monaco defender, let a short pass from goalkeeper Radoslaw Majecki slip under his feet, set up a 19th-minute opener for Mauro Icardi.

Mbappe took the ball away and, displaying quick feet, passed square for Icardi to tuck the ball home from close range.

With teammate Neymar suspended and watching from the empty stands, Mbappe was able to dominate the contest with his talent and pace and added the second goal in the 81st minute.

Angel Di Maria set him up with a short through-ball and the World Cup winner lifted his finish over Majecki to make sure of the outcome.

Mbappe’s goal came a minute after he had hit the crossbar with a clever chip from outside the penalty area having spotted Majecki off his line.

It was one of few chances in a largely dour final, played behind closed doors, that only came alive in the last 15 minutes.

PSG retained their title and extended to 14 their record number of wins in the cup. Monaco had won five previous times but last in 1991. They were last in the final in 2010 when PSG also beat them.

“We work every day to experience this type of emotion, reward and recognition. The work of a whole group, the staff, and the supporters who could not be here. We think about them a lot, this title is also for them," Mbappe said.

"When you play for PSG, one of the biggest clubs in the world, the biggest club in the country, every title counts to go down in history. We want to be part of this story, it's a great step today."

PSG defender Alessandro Florenzi had a powerful shot tipped over by Majecki in the first half while Monaco created the better opportunities after the break.

PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas made two good saves from Wissam Ben Yedder and Krepin Diatta and saw an errant cross rebound back into play off his crossbar.

But any hopes of a comeback were swiftly ended by the pace and vision of Mbappe as he settled the outcome.

Both clubs now turn their attention to the end of the Ligue 1 season on Sunday where they hold out hopes of winning the title. PSG are second, one point behind leaders Lille, while Monaco are three points adrift.

Kylian Mbappe set up the first goal and grabbed one of his own as Paris St Germain retained the French Cup with a 2-0 victory over Monaco in Wednesday’s final at the Stade de France.

Kylian Mbappe set up the first goal and grabbed one of his own as Paris St Germain retained the French Cup with a 2-0 victory over Monaco in Wednesday’s final at the Stade de France. ALSO READ: Liverpool must maintain focus to seal top-four finish: Phillips Quick thinking by Mbappe to dispose of Axel Disasi in his own penalty area, as the Monaco defender, let a short pass from goalkeeper Radoslaw Majecki slip under his feet, set up a 19th-minute opener for Mauro Icardi. Mbappe took the ball away and, displaying quick feet, passed square for Icardi to tuck the ball home from close range. With teammate Neymar suspended and watching from the empty stands, Mbappe was able to dominate the contest with his talent and pace and added the second goal in the 81st minute. Angel Di Maria set him up with a short through-ball and the World Cup winner lifted his finish over Majecki to make sure of the outcome. Mbappe’s goal came a minute after he had hit the crossbar with a clever chip from outside the penalty area having spotted Majecki off his line. It was one of few chances in a largely dour final, played behind closed doors, that only came alive in the last 15 minutes. PSG retained their title and extended to 14 their record number of wins in the cup. Monaco had won five previous times but last in 1991. They were last in the final in 2010 when PSG also beat them. “We work every day to experience this type of emotion, reward and recognition. The work of a whole group, the staff, and the supporters who could not be here. We think about them a lot, this title is also for them," Mbappe said. "When you play for PSG, one of the biggest clubs in the world, the biggest club in the country, every title counts to go down in history. We want to be part of this story, it's a great step today." PSG defender Alessandro Florenzi had a powerful shot tipped over by Majecki in the first half while Monaco created the better opportunities after the break. PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas made two good saves from Wissam Ben Yedder and Krepin Diatta and saw an errant cross rebound back into play off his crossbar. But any hopes of a comeback were swiftly ended by the pace and vision of Mbappe as he settled the outcome. Both clubs now turn their attention to the end of the Ligue 1 season on Sunday where they hold out hopes of winning the title. PSG are second, one point behind leaders Lille, while Monaco are three points adrift.

Kylian Mbappe magic sets up Paris Saint-Germain for French Cup victory

Kylian Mbappe is not distracted by rumours of a possible move to Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino insisted on Friday.

The France World Cup-winning superstar has long been linked with an eventual move to Madrid, who courted him as a teenager before he signed for first club Monaco.

His current contract with PSG is due to expire at the end of next season.

The player and PSG are in talks over a possible extension, but Spanish television station Cuatro this week claimed Mbappe wants to move to Real and has decided not to sign a new deal in Paris.

The story was denied by sources close to Mbappe, who spoke to French broadcaster RMC Sport.

"This is something we are accustomed to at the top level, when we talk about big clubs and great players like Kylian, there are always rumours," Pochettino told reporters in a press conference on Friday.

"The most important thing is that Kylian is at peace and is focused on helping the team to achieve its objectives.

"He is so mature despite his youth and both he and the club are focused on trying to reach an agreement so that Kylian stays here for a long time.

"That is what the club wants. We can't control everything that happens outside the club but all that stuff has no impact on the team."

Mbappe, 22, scored twice as PSG beat Bayern Munich 3-2 away in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie on Wednesday.

The sides meet again in the return leg next Tuesday.

Before that PSG travel to Strasbourg on Saturday in a key game in the Ligue 1 title race.

Mbappe is the top scorer in Ligue 1 this season with 20 goals from 26 appearances.

Kylian Mbappe is not distracted by rumours of a possible move to Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino insisted on Friday. The France World Cup-winning superstar has long been linked with an eventual move to Madrid, who courted him as a teenager before he signed for first club Monaco.

Kylian Mbappe is not distracted by rumours of a possible move to Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino insisted on Friday. The France World Cup-winning superstar has long been linked with an eventual move to Madrid, who courted him as a teenager before he signed for first club Monaco. His current contract with PSG is due to expire at the end of next season. The player and PSG are in talks over a possible extension, but Spanish television station Cuatro this week claimed Mbappe wants to move to Real and has decided not to sign a new deal in Paris. The story was denied by sources close to Mbappe, who spoke to French broadcaster RMC Sport. "This is something we are accustomed to at the top level, when we talk about big clubs and great players like Kylian, there are always rumours," Pochettino told reporters in a press conference on Friday. "The most important thing is that Kylian is at peace and is focused on helping the team to achieve its objectives. "He is so mature despite his youth and both he and the club are focused on trying to reach an agreement so that Kylian stays here for a long time. "That is what the club wants. We can't control everything that happens outside the club but all that stuff has no impact on the team." Mbappe, 22, scored twice as PSG beat Bayern Munich 3-2 away in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie on Wednesday. The sides meet again in the return leg next Tuesday. Before that PSG travel to Strasbourg on Saturday in a key game in the Ligue 1 title race. Mbappe is the top scorer in Ligue 1 this season with 20 goals from 26 appearances.

Mbappe 'focused' on PSG amid Real Madrid rumours - Pochettino

Kylian Mbappe insisted Paris Saint-Germain still have it all to do after he scored twice in a thrilling 3-2 win at holders Bayern Munich in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg.

Bayern had their 19-match unbeaten run in the Champions League ended in a repeat of last year's final, as the German giants suffered their first European defeat since March 2019.

PSG&nbsp;raced into a 2-0 lead after just 28 minutes behind closed doors at the Allianz Arena as Neymar created goals for Mbappe and Marquinhos.

Bayern, whose top scorer Robert Lewandowski is sidelined by a knee injury, drew level courtesy of headers by Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and Thomas Mueller.

However, Mbappe showed his class with a superb second goal to give the visitors an advantage for the return leg in Paris.

"We used all our chances and had a bit of luck, but nothing has been decided," Mbappe told Sky, with the second leg to come in Paris on Tuesday.

PSG&nbsp;goalkeeper Keylor Navas played a key role with a&nbsp;string of saves as Bayern peppered his goal with 31 shots compared to the French club's six.

"We have to score a lot more goals," said Mueller. "If it had ended 5-3 or 6-3 for us, no one could have complained based on the chances."

Bayern coach Hansi Flick, who finished on the losing side for the first time in the Champions League, also rued the number of missed chances.

"With the chances we had, we could have got a good result despite conceding three goals," Flick said.

"We don't like to lose, but the way the team played was top."

This was a record 19th appearance in the Champions League quarter-finals for Bayern, but there was little for them to celebrate at the final whistle.

"Kylian Mbappe made the difference. It's a very positive result for us, but everything is still open," said&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;coach Maurico Pochettino.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Marquinhos scores and limps off -</h2>

&nbsp;

Covid-19 cast its shadow over both teams with Bayern winger Serge Gnabry, plus&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;pair Alessandro Florenzi and Marco Verratti quarantined after testing positive.

Heavy snow fell in the first half in Munich as the visitors put the heat on the holders.

The opening goal came after Neymar sprinted through a gaping hole in the defence and laid the ball off for Mbappe, whose shot flew into the net through Manuel Neuer's legs.

PSG&nbsp;forward Julian Draxler had a goal disallowed with Mbappe offside in the build-up as the visitors kept up the pressure.

Bayern midfielder Leon Goretzka powered a header into the feet of Navas&nbsp;just before the hosts fell two goals behind.

A clearance kick only got as far as Neymar, whose ball over the top found Marquinhos unmarked in the area to stroke his shot past Neuer, shortly before the&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;captain limped off injured.

Flick responded by bringing on Alphonso Davies to provide pace on the flanks and moved David Alaba into defensive midfield.&nbsp;

The hosts pulled a goal back when Mueller's cross was headed past Navas by Choupo-Moting to make it 2-1 at half-time.

Neymar was denied by Neuer and Angel Di Maria had an effort cleared off the line, while Leroy Sane went close at the other end for Bayern as both teams had their chances after the break.

Bayern then equalised when Mueller nodded in a superb Joshua Kimmich free-kick on the hour.

However, the wintry night in Munich belonged to Mbappe, who showed his class by turning Bayern defender Jerome Boateng inside and out before driving his shot past Neuer with 22 minutes left.

Bayern went down fighting as Alaba and Mueller both fired agonisingly wide in the dying stages.&nbsp;

Kylian Mbappe insisted Paris Saint-Germain still have it all to do after he scored twice in a thrilling 3-2 win at holders Bayern Munich in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg.

Kylian Mbappe insisted Paris Saint-Germain still have it all to do after he scored twice in a thrilling 3-2 win at holders Bayern Munich in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg. Bayern had their 19-match unbeaten run in the Champions League ended in a repeat of last year's final, as the German giants suffered their first European defeat since March 2019. PSG raced into a 2-0 lead after just 28 minutes behind closed doors at the Allianz Arena as Neymar created goals for Mbappe and Marquinhos. Bayern, whose top scorer Robert Lewandowski is sidelined by a knee injury, drew level courtesy of headers by Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and Thomas Mueller. However, Mbappe showed his class with a superb second goal to give the visitors an advantage for the return leg in Paris. "We used all our chances and had a bit of luck, but nothing has been decided," Mbappe told Sky, with the second leg to come in Paris on Tuesday. PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas played a key role with a string of saves as Bayern peppered his goal with 31 shots compared to the French club's six. "We have to score a lot more goals," said Mueller. "If it had ended 5-3 or 6-3 for us, no one could have complained based on the chances." Bayern coach Hansi Flick, who finished on the losing side for the first time in the Champions League, also rued the number of missed chances. "With the chances we had, we could have got a good result despite conceding three goals," Flick said. "We don't like to lose, but the way the team played was top." This was a record 19th appearance in the Champions League quarter-finals for Bayern, but there was little for them to celebrate at the final whistle. "Kylian Mbappe made the difference. It's a very positive result for us, but everything is still open," said PSG coach Maurico Pochettino. - Marquinhos scores and limps off - Covid-19 cast its shadow over both teams with Bayern winger Serge Gnabry, plus PSG pair Alessandro Florenzi and Marco Verratti quarantined after testing positive. Heavy snow fell in the first half in Munich as the visitors put the heat on the holders. The opening goal came after Neymar sprinted through a gaping hole in the defence and laid the ball off for Mbappe, whose shot flew into the net through Manuel Neuer's legs. PSG forward Julian Draxler had a goal disallowed with Mbappe offside in the build-up as the visitors kept up the pressure. Bayern midfielder Leon Goretzka powered a header into the feet of Navas just before the hosts fell two goals behind. A clearance kick only got as far as Neymar, whose ball over the top found Marquinhos unmarked in the area to stroke his shot past Neuer, shortly before the PSG captain limped off injured. Flick responded by bringing on Alphonso Davies to provide pace on the flanks and moved David Alaba into defensive midfield. The hosts pulled a goal back when Mueller's cross was headed past Navas by Choupo-Moting to make it 2-1 at half-time. Neymar was denied by Neuer and Angel Di Maria had an effort cleared off the line, while Leroy Sane went close at the other end for Bayern as both teams had their chances after the break. Bayern then equalised when Mueller nodded in a superb Joshua Kimmich free-kick on the hour. However, the wintry night in Munich belonged to Mbappe, who showed his class by turning Bayern defender Jerome Boateng inside and out before driving his shot past Neuer with 22 minutes left. Bayern went down fighting as Alaba and Mueller both fired agonisingly wide in the dying stages.

UEFA Champions League: Mbappe stars as PSG win at holders Bayern Munich

French star Kylian Mbappe has become the youngest player to smash 100 goals in Ligue 1. The 22-year-old achieved this feat after scoring a brace against Olympique Lyonnais in a 4-2 win on Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/record-breaking-messi-scores-twice-as-barcelona-hammer-real-sociedad-6-1-372159" hreflang="en">Record-breaking Messi scores twice as Barcelona hammer Real Sociedad 6-1</a>

Kylian Mbappe has been in sublime form this season. The French striker has scored 20 goals in this season (Ligue 1) for Paris Saint Germain with just 25 appearances.&nbsp;

With 84 league goals for PSG and 16 for Monaco, Mbappe is the youngest player to reach the 100-goal milestone in the French top division after Herve Revelli, with St Etienne, in 1969.

"When I scored the (team's) fourth goal, the first thing I thought about was the fifth," said Mbappe.

"It's an important milestone in my career but I'm still very young and I can improve."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-disappointed-serena-williams-withdraws-from-miami-open-372158" hreflang="en">'I am disappointed': Serena Williams withdraws from Miami Open</a>

"It was a good day to score my 100th goal in Ligue 1," he said. "I knew I was two goals short. After I gave [Nantes striker] Randal Kolo Muani a goal last week, I had to make up for it!

"It's another stage in my career, another step towards history."

However, the French star was taken off between the match after sustaining a minor muscle injury. He was substituted with Neymar, who made his return after six-weeks due to injury.&nbsp;

French star Kylian Mbappe has become the youngest player to smash 100 goals in Ligue 1. The 22-year-old achieved this feat after scoring a brace against Olympique Lyonnais in a 4-2 win on Sunday.

French star Kylian Mbappe has become the youngest player to smash 100 goals in Ligue 1. The 22-year-old achieved this feat after scoring a brace against Olympique Lyonnais in a 4-2 win on Sunday. Also read: Record-breaking Messi scores twice as Barcelona hammer Real Sociedad 6-1 Kylian Mbappe has been in sublime form this season. The French striker has scored 20 goals in this season (Ligue 1) for Paris Saint Germain with just 25 appearances. With 84 league goals for PSG and 16 for Monaco, Mbappe is the youngest player to reach the 100-goal milestone in the French top division after Herve Revelli, with St Etienne, in 1969. "When I scored the (team's) fourth goal, the first thing I thought about was the fifth," said Mbappe. "It's an important milestone in my career but I'm still very young and I can improve." Also read: 'I am disappointed': Serena Williams withdraws from Miami Open "It was a good day to score my 100th goal in Ligue 1," he said. "I knew I was two goals short. After I gave [Nantes striker] Randal Kolo Muani a goal last week, I had to make up for it! "It's another stage in my career, another step towards history." However, the French star was taken off between the match after sustaining a minor muscle injury. He was substituted with Neymar, who made his return after six-weeks due to injury.

French star Kylian Mbappe achieves Ligue 1 milestone as he scores brace against Lyon

Kylian Mbappe's hattrick helped Paris Saint Germain thrash Barcelona 4-1 in the first leg of Champions League last-16 on Tuesday. The massive away win for the French team have brought them very close to the quarter-finals of the tournament.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-alaba-confirms-he-will-leave-bayern-munich-at-the-end-of-season-364075" hreflang="en">David Alaba confirms he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of season</a>

Barcelona captain Lionel Messi put the Catalan giants in front after scoring a penalty in the first half of the match, however, French striker Kylian Mbappe scored an equaliser with a classy piece of control and finishing to complete a flowing team move also involving Marco Verratti and Layvin Kurzawa, ending his goalless streak in tournament's knockout rounds.

In the 65th minute, Mbappe scored his second goal, taking the club ahead in the match for the first time. Moise Kean extended the lead by scoring in the 70th minute.&nbsp;

Mbappe completed his treble in the 85th minute by curling the ball past the German into the top corner.

His coach Mauricio Pochettino praised the striker and said he is happy at the club.

"He is top class, a great player and he is happy in our club," he said.

"Kylian felt calm before the game. During yesterday's training session he asked me "how many times have you won at Camp Nou?" I replied in Spanish that just one and he said "well tomorrow you are going to win the second time" and now after the game, we met at the pitch and he said "I told you that you was going to win your second match, you have won your second time here," Pochettino added.&nbsp;

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman was left "disappointed" after the result and said that the team was lacking a lot of things.&nbsp;

He said: "I'm going back home sad and disappointed above all due to the differences in the second half but I have said a few times that we are lacking a lot of things, especially for the level you need in the Champions League. This doesn't mean that we aren't in the right path but we have to be realistic because the team is changing. In many positions the squad is very young and we are missing important players and we were unable to stop them in the second half. We have to accept that, analyze it and improve."

Kylian Mbappe's hattrick helped Paris Saint Germain thrash Barcelona 4-1 in the first leg of Champions League last-16 on Tuesday. The massive away win for the French team have brought them very close to the quarter-finals of the tournament.

Kylian Mbappe's hattrick helped Paris Saint Germain thrash Barcelona 4-1 in the first leg of Champions League last-16 on Tuesday. The massive away win for the French team have brought them very close to the quarter-finals of the tournament. ALSO READ: David Alaba confirms he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of season Barcelona captain Lionel Messi put the Catalan giants in front after scoring a penalty in the first half of the match, however, French striker Kylian Mbappe scored an equaliser with a classy piece of control and finishing to complete a flowing team move also involving Marco Verratti and Layvin Kurzawa, ending his goalless streak in tournament's knockout rounds. In the 65th minute, Mbappe scored his second goal, taking the club ahead in the match for the first time. Moise Kean extended the lead by scoring in the 70th minute. Mbappe completed his treble in the 85th minute by curling the ball past the German into the top corner. His coach Mauricio Pochettino praised the striker and said he is happy at the club. "He is top class, a great player and he is happy in our club," he said. "Kylian felt calm before the game. During yesterday's training session he asked me "how many times have you won at Camp Nou?" I replied in Spanish that just one and he said "well tomorrow you are going to win the second time" and now after the game, we met at the pitch and he said "I told you that you was going to win your second match, you have won your second time here," Pochettino added. Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman was left "disappointed" after the result and said that the team was lacking a lot of things. He said: "I'm going back home sad and disappointed above all due to the differences in the second half but I have said a few times that we are lacking a lot of things, especially for the level you need in the Champions League. This doesn't mean that we aren't in the right path but we have to be realistic because the team is changing. In many positions the squad is very young and we are missing important players and we were unable to stop them in the second half. We have to accept that, analyze it and improve."

UEFA Champions League: Kylian Mbappe's hattrick sinks Messi's Barcelona at Camp Nou

Paris Saint Germain star Kylian Mbappe thanked former head coach Thomas Tuchel after media reports said that the German coach had been sacked by French Ligue 1 club.&nbsp;

ALSO SEE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pochettino-to-allegri-managers-that-could-replace-tuchel-in-psg-352117" hreflang="en">From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG</a>

"It is sadly the law of football. Nobody will forget your time here. You wrote a wonderful part of the club's history and I say to you: 'thank you, coach'," Mbappe said in an Instagram post on Thursday that was accompanied by a picture of him with Tuchel.

French giants Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday sacked manager Thomas Tuchel. The former Borussia Dortmund boss was under immense pressure with PSG sitting third in the Ligue 1 points table, behind Lyon and Lille, after a topsy-turvy start to the 2020-21 season.

Tuchel was appointed head coach of PSG in 2018 with the priority of lifting the club’s maiden UEFA Champions League trophy. The 47-year-old was backed by the PSG hierarchy and Tuchel even came close to delivering the UCL trophy in 2019 but lost in the final, to Bayern Munich 1-0.&nbsp;

Pochettino, who played for PSG as a defender in the early 2000s, has been out of a job since being dismissed by Spurs in November 2019. He guided the London side to the Champions League final in the 2018-19 season.

"Pochettino is being lined up by @PSG_English. A terrific coach whose only minus is the lack of winning trophies... Well, that's about to change," former England and Spurs striker Gary Lineker tweeted.

Former Argentina international Juan Pablo Sorin said: "Pochettino to @PSG_inside? Hopefully."

Paris Saint Germain star Kylian Mbappe thanked former head coach Thomas Tuchel after media reports said that the German coach had been sacked by French Ligue 1 club.

Paris Saint Germain star Kylian Mbappe thanked former head coach Thomas Tuchel after media reports said that the German coach had been sacked by French Ligue 1 club. ALSO SEE: From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG "It is sadly the law of football. Nobody will forget your time here. You wrote a wonderful part of the club's history and I say to you: 'thank you, coach'," Mbappe said in an Instagram post on Thursday that was accompanied by a picture of him with Tuchel. French giants Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday sacked manager Thomas Tuchel. The former Borussia Dortmund boss was under immense pressure with PSG sitting third in the Ligue 1 points table, behind Lyon and Lille, after a topsy-turvy start to the 2020-21 season. Tuchel was appointed head coach of PSG in 2018 with the priority of lifting the club’s maiden UEFA Champions League trophy. The 47-year-old was backed by the PSG hierarchy and Tuchel even came close to delivering the UCL trophy in 2019 but lost in the final, to Bayern Munich 1-0. Pochettino, who played for PSG as a defender in the early 2000s, has been out of a job since being dismissed by Spurs in November 2019. He guided the London side to the Champions League final in the 2018-19 season. "Pochettino is being lined up by @PSG_English. A terrific coach whose only minus is the lack of winning trophies... Well, that's about to change," former England and Spurs striker Gary Lineker tweeted. Former Argentina international Juan Pablo Sorin said: "Pochettino to @PSG_inside? Hopefully."

'Thank you, coach': Paris St Germain Kylian Mbappe thanks former coach Tuchel

PSG star Kylian Mbappe feels that it is time for action against racism. The French striker staged a walkout and followed Istanbul Basaksehir off the pitch in protest after the Turkish club accused a match official of racism on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-basaksehir-stage-champions-league-walk-out-over-officials-alleged-racism-348492" hreflang="en">PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism</a>

However, the match was resumed on Wednesday. Three onfield referees took the knee in protest against racism ahead of the match.&nbsp;

"Of course, I am proud of what was done. A lot of things were said but in fact, there's nothing better than actions," the 21-year-old Mbappe said after PSG beat Basaksehir 5-1 to top Champions League Group H.

The UEFA Champions League witnessed an unprecedented incident as players from Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir walked off the pitch amid allegations of racism by fourth officials on Tuesday.

The entire row erupted after Istanbul Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo – a former Cameroon international – was shown a red card during a fierce face-off on the touchline with staff from the Turkish club appearing to accuse the officials of using a racist term.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-utd-stumble-out-of-champions-league-with-loss-in-leipzig-348496" hreflang="en">Man Utd stumble out of Champions League with loss in Leipzig</a>

While many footballing stars across the world chipped in with their support on social media platforms, Turkish President Recent Tayyip Erdogan said he “strongly” condemned the incident. UEFA announced that it would open a ‘thorough investigation’ on the incident.

Even Paris Saint-Germain stars Kylian Mbappe and Neymar were seen having a chat with the match officials as the duo looked stunned by the usage of words by the fourth referee.&nbsp;

"We are tired, we don't want to go through this (racism incidents) again," Mbappe said. "We're all human beings and this was intolerable. People are fed up and we had to do something.

"Yesterday we were not disappointed not to play. We made that decision. We were proud. The more you let these things slide, the more you're led to believe that it's normal. But no, it's not normal."

PSG qualified into round of 16 after a thumping victory over the Turkish club. Neymar's hattrick and Mbappe's brace helped the French club qualify with ease.&nbsp;

PSG star Kylian Mbappe feels that it is time for action against racism. The French striker staged a walkout and followed Istanbul Basaksehir off the pitch in protest after the Turkish club accused a match official of racism on Tuesday.

PSG star Kylian Mbappe feels that it is time for action against racism. The French striker staged a walkout and followed Istanbul Basaksehir off the pitch in protest after the Turkish club accused a match official of racism on Tuesday. Also read: PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism However, the match was resumed on Wednesday. Three onfield referees took the knee in protest against racism ahead of the match. "Of course, I am proud of what was done. A lot of things were said but in fact, there's nothing better than actions," the 21-year-old Mbappe said after PSG beat Basaksehir 5-1 to top Champions League Group H. The UEFA Champions League witnessed an unprecedented incident as players from Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir walked off the pitch amid allegations of racism by fourth officials on Tuesday. The entire row erupted after Istanbul Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo – a former Cameroon international – was shown a red card during a fierce face-off on the touchline with staff from the Turkish club appearing to accuse the officials of using a racist term. Also read: Man Utd stumble out of Champions League with loss in Leipzig While many footballing stars across the world chipped in with their support on social media platforms, Turkish President Recent Tayyip Erdogan said he “strongly” condemned the incident. UEFA announced that it would open a ‘thorough investigation’ on the incident. Even Paris Saint-Germain stars Kylian Mbappe and Neymar were seen having a chat with the match officials as the duo looked stunned by the usage of words by the fourth referee. "We are tired, we don't want to go through this (racism incidents) again," Mbappe said. "We're all human beings and this was intolerable. People are fed up and we had to do something. "Yesterday we were not disappointed not to play. We made that decision. We were proud. The more you let these things slide, the more you're led to believe that it's normal. But no, it's not normal." PSG qualified into round of 16 after a thumping victory over the Turkish club. Neymar's hattrick and Mbappe's brace helped the French club qualify with ease.

'Nothing better than actions': Kylian Mbappe on fight against racism

French national team coach Didier Deschamps on Friday said that their star striker Kylian Mbappe will face a late fitness test ahead of their Nations League A Group 3 clash away to Portugal.

French national team coach Didier Deschamps on Friday said that their star striker Kylian Mbappe will face a late fitness test ahead of their Nations League A Group 3 clash away to Portugal. Also read: Liverpool star Mohamed Salah tests positive for COVID-19 The PSG star was ruled out of Finland clash, where France was beaten 2-0 at home, due to a thigh injury which made his availability for Portugal clash uncertain. "He's going to do the first part of the training session tonight on his own and for him, and others, we'll assess tomorrow morning," Deschamps told a news conference. Finland's win ended France's 12-match unbeaten streak. Les Bleus defenders Presnel Kimpembe, Lucas Hernandez and Benjamin Pavard and forward Kinglsey Coman missed the match. World Cup-winners France are second in the table on 10 points, behind Europan champions Portugal on goal difference. Both teams shared the points in a goalless stalemate in the first group meeting at the Stade de France last month. (Inputs from Reuters)

Nations League: Kylian Mbappe's availability for Portugal clash still uncertain

Kylian Mbappe scored from the penalty spot as Paris Saint-Germain eased to their seventh straight Ligue 1 win on Saturday, beating Nantes 3-0 away to move provisionally three points clear at the top of the table.

All the goals came in the second half at the Stade de la Beaujoire, with Ander Herrera opening the scoring two minutes after the restart and Mbappe converting a 65th-minute spot-kick before Pablo Sarabia secured the points late on.

PSG have now taken maximum points since starting the season with back-to-back defeats and the reigning champions are three clear of Lille and Rennes at the summit.

Lille, who are unbeaten, can rejoin the club from the capital at the top if they beat Lyon on Sunday. Rennes beat Brest 2-1 on Saturday.

"I am very happy. We made lots of changes because we felt it was necessary. We don't expect things to be perfect and spectacular all the time," said Paris coach Thomas Tuchel.

He made six changes to his line-up following the 2-0 midweek win at Istanbul Basaksehir in the Champions League, with Neymar one of those missing after suffering an adductor injury that is expected to keep him out until the upcoming international break.

However Nantes, whose game at Lens last weekend was called off following a coronavirus outbreak in their opponents' squad, were missing an entire back four here, including three to Covid-19.

Sarabia hit the post early on for the visitors in this game, played behind closed doors after France returned to a full national lockdown in an attempt to stem a surge in coronavirus cases.

Nigerian winger Moses Simon then missed an open goal for Nantes, somehow failing to turn in Randal Kolo Muani's assist.

<h2>- 'No injury' for Kean, Mbappe -</h2>

Kolo Muani then curled a shot agonisingly wide after a Herrera slip had let Nantes in, before PSG took off Moise Kean -- scorer of four goals in the previous two games -- at the break.

The league leaders got the breakthrough at the start of the second half when Mbappe picked out the former Manchester United midfielder Herrera to fire home.

Mbappe, who moved from the left wing to a more central role in the second half, then benefited from a very soft penalty award when he went down under pressure from Jean-Charles Castelletto.

The World Cup winner stroked home the penalty for his seventh league goal of the season, all of which have come in the last six matches.

He was then withdrawn and headed straight down the tunnel clutching his right hamstring, but Tuchel said it was nothing to worry about ahead of Wednesday's key Champions League clash with RB Leipzig in Germany.

"It is just fatigue. It's not an injury," said Tuchel. "The same for Kean. He had just taken a few knocks."&nbsp;

Just before Mbappe went off, Nantes won a penalty of their own when Colin Dagba fouled Marcus Coco in the box, but Abdoul Kader Bamba's effort from 12 yards was saved by Keylor Navas.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Rennes back on track before Chelsea -</h2>

&nbsp;

PSG have conceded just one goal in their seven-game winning run, while Sarabia chipped in after pouncing on Imran Louza's back-pass to make it 23 goals scored in that time.

Earlier Rennes got back on track by coming from behind to beat Brest as they prepare to go to Chelsea in the Champions League in midweek.

Defensive duo Damien Da Silva and Nayef Aguerd got the goals for Rennes after Franck Honorat had given the visitors the lead at Roazhon Park in a Brittany derby.

A third-place finish in the last, curtailed French season allowed Rennes to qualify for the Champions League for the first time, but they have taken just one point from their first two group games, a 1-1 draw with Russians Krasnodar being followed by a 1-0 loss away to Sevilla in midweek.

They face Chelsea in London on Wednesday, a game which will be missed by teenage France midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, who is injured and also played no part against Brest.

Kylian Mbappe scored from the penalty spot as Paris Saint-Germain eased to their seventh straight Ligue 1 win on Saturday, beating Nantes 3-0 away to move provisionally three points clear at the top of the table.

Kylian Mbappe scored from the penalty spot as Paris Saint-Germain eased to their seventh straight Ligue 1 win on Saturday, beating Nantes 3-0 away to move provisionally three points clear at the top of the table. All the goals came in the second half at the Stade de la Beaujoire, with Ander Herrera opening the scoring two minutes after the restart and Mbappe converting a 65th-minute spot-kick before Pablo Sarabia secured the points late on. PSG have now taken maximum points since starting the season with back-to-back defeats and the reigning champions are three clear of Lille and Rennes at the summit. Lille, who are unbeaten, can rejoin the club from the capital at the top if they beat Lyon on Sunday. Rennes beat Brest 2-1 on Saturday. "I am very happy. We made lots of changes because we felt it was necessary. We don't expect things to be perfect and spectacular all the time," said Paris coach Thomas Tuchel. He made six changes to his line-up following the 2-0 midweek win at Istanbul Basaksehir in the Champions League, with Neymar one of those missing after suffering an adductor injury that is expected to keep him out until the upcoming international break. However Nantes, whose game at Lens last weekend was called off following a coronavirus outbreak in their opponents' squad, were missing an entire back four here, including three to Covid-19. Sarabia hit the post early on for the visitors in this game, played behind closed doors after France returned to a full national lockdown in an attempt to stem a surge in coronavirus cases. Nigerian winger Moses Simon then missed an open goal for Nantes, somehow failing to turn in Randal Kolo Muani's assist. - 'No injury' for Kean, Mbappe - Kolo Muani then curled a shot agonisingly wide after a Herrera slip had let Nantes in, before PSG took off Moise Kean -- scorer of four goals in the previous two games -- at the break. The league leaders got the breakthrough at the start of the second half when Mbappe picked out the former Manchester United midfielder Herrera to fire home. Mbappe, who moved from the left wing to a more central role in the second half, then benefited from a very soft penalty award when he went down under pressure from Jean-Charles Castelletto. The World Cup winner stroked home the penalty for his seventh league goal of the season, all of which have come in the last six matches. He was then withdrawn and headed straight down the tunnel clutching his right hamstring, but Tuchel said it was nothing to worry about ahead of Wednesday's key Champions League clash with RB Leipzig in Germany. "It is just fatigue. It's not an injury," said Tuchel. "The same for Kean. He had just taken a few knocks." Just before Mbappe went off, Nantes won a penalty of their own when Colin Dagba fouled Marcus Coco in the box, but Abdoul Kader Bamba's effort from 12 yards was saved by Keylor Navas. - Rennes back on track before Chelsea - PSG have conceded just one goal in their seven-game winning run, while Sarabia chipped in after pouncing on Imran Louza's back-pass to make it 23 goals scored in that time. Earlier Rennes got back on track by coming from behind to beat Brest as they prepare to go to Chelsea in the Champions League in midweek. Defensive duo Damien Da Silva and Nayef Aguerd got the goals for Rennes after Franck Honorat had given the visitors the lead at Roazhon Park in a Brittany derby. A third-place finish in the last, curtailed French season allowed Rennes to qualify for the Champions League for the first time, but they have taken just one point from their first two group games, a 1-1 draw with Russians Krasnodar being followed by a 1-0 loss away to Sevilla in midweek. They face Chelsea in London on Wednesday, a game which will be missed by teenage France midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, who is injured and also played no part against Brest.

Mbappe on target as PSG win without injured Neymar

France and Paris Saint Germain forward Kylian Mbappe has tested positive for COVID-19, the French football federation (FFF) said on Monday. The player will miss Nations League international against Croatia that will be played at Paris' Stade de France on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/three-players-including-neymar-test-positive-in-paris-st-germain-324779">Three players including Neymar test positive in Paris St Germain</a>

"Given that the result of his COVID-19 test carried out by UEFA on Monday morning showed up as positive, he was removed from the rest of the squad after the results came through following training, and then returned to his home later in the evening," the French football body said on its website.

On Saturday, the French star scored a winner against Sweden (1-0).&nbsp;

The 21-year old is also the latest member of the Paris Saint Germain (PSG) team to test positive for COVID-19, with Brazilian international Neymar also reported by French media as having tested positive for the virus.

France and Paris Saint Germain forward Kylian Mbappe has tested positive for COVID-19, the French football federation (FFF) said on Monday. The player will miss Nations League international against Croatia that will be played at Paris' Stade de France on Tuesday.

France and Paris Saint Germain forward Kylian Mbappe has tested positive for COVID-19, the French football federation (FFF) said on Monday. The player will miss Nations League international against Croatia that will be played at Paris' Stade de France on Tuesday. Also read: Three players including Neymar test positive in Paris St Germain "Given that the result of his COVID-19 test carried out by UEFA on Monday morning showed up as positive, he was removed from the rest of the squad after the results came through following training, and then returned to his home later in the evening," the French football body said on its website. On Saturday, the French star scored a winner against Sweden (1-0). The 21-year old is also the latest member of the Paris Saint Germain (PSG) team to test positive for COVID-19, with Brazilian international Neymar also reported by French media as having tested positive for the virus.

PSG star Kylian Mbappe tests positive for COVID-19

Kylian Mbappe said he is feeling similar vibes as during France’s World Cup winning campaign in 2018 after Paris St Germain reached the Champions League final with an emphatic 3-0 win against RB Leipzig on Tuesday.

“I feel the same vibes because we managed to create a group where everyone knows their importance and everyone do their job,” the France striker told a news conference.

“We do a lot of activities outside the pitch, maybe it’s too much for some but that’s how you win titles.

“It’s easier to make efforts and sacrifices for your team mates if they are your friends.”

Mbappe produced a below-par performance against Leipzig, but he is just back from an ankle injury and still lacks match practice.

He played half an hour in the 2-1 quarter-final win against Atalanta, helping PSG turn the tide as they were 1-0 down.

“When I got injured against St Etienne (in the French Cup final on July 24), I though the Champions League was over for me,” the 21-year-old said.

“But the morning after I told myself I needed to be part of this journey, even if I didn’t play, at least to bring my good mood to the team.”

PSG will face either Olympique Lyonnais or Bayern Munich in Sunday’s final, with the Ligue 1 side having Mbappe’s preference.

“I’d rather play Lyon because they’re a French side, but if it is Bayern, so be it,” he said.

Kylian Mbappe said he is feeling similar vibes as during France’s World Cup winning campaign in 2018 after Paris St Germain reached the Champions League final with an emphatic 3-0 win against RB Leipzig on Tuesday.

Kylian Mbappe said he is feeling similar vibes as during France’s World Cup winning campaign in 2018 after Paris St Germain reached the Champions League final with an emphatic 3-0 win against RB Leipzig on Tuesday. “I feel the same vibes because we managed to create a group where everyone knows their importance and everyone do their job,” the France striker told a news conference. “We do a lot of activities outside the pitch, maybe it’s too much for some but that’s how you win titles. “It’s easier to make efforts and sacrifices for your team mates if they are your friends.” Mbappe produced a below-par performance against Leipzig, but he is just back from an ankle injury and still lacks match practice. He played half an hour in the 2-1 quarter-final win against Atalanta, helping PSG turn the tide as they were 1-0 down. “When I got injured against St Etienne (in the French Cup final on July 24), I though the Champions League was over for me,” the 21-year-old said. “But the morning after I told myself I needed to be part of this journey, even if I didn’t play, at least to bring my good mood to the team.” PSG will face either Olympique Lyonnais or Bayern Munich in Sunday’s final, with the Ligue 1 side having Mbappe’s preference. “I’d rather play Lyon because they’re a French side, but if it is Bayern, so be it,” he said.

I feel World Cup vibes, says France striker Mbappe after PSG's win

Kylian Mbappe hit a hat-trick as Paris Saint-Germain cruised into the final of the French Cup with a thumping 5-1 win at Lyon on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mbappe-masterclass-fires-psg-to-4-0-win-over-dijon-283545">Mbappe masterclass fires PSG to 4-0 win over Dijon</a>

The World Cup winner took his goal tally in all competitions to 30 during a win that was eased by Fernando Marcal being sent off just before Neymar put the French champions ahead in the 64th minute from the penalty spot.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-psg-manage-win-against-bordeaux-despite-neymars-red-card-282337">Ligue 1: PSG manage win against Bordeaux despite Neymar's red card</a>

The defeat Lyon ends a five-match unbeaten run that included an impressive 1-0 win over Juventus in the Champions League and the weekend's triumph over local rivals Saint-Etienne.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-saint-germain-president-nasser-al-khelaifi-charged-with-criminal-offences-281974">Paris Saint Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi charged with criminal offences</a>

"It was a solid, serious display full of concentration," said&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;coach Thomas Tuchel.

"After the Dortmund match (lost 2-1 in Germany), Mbappe has responded brilliantly. He uses his speed so intelligently ... he is in good form."

Mbappe equalised for the away side with a simple tap-in just three minutes after Martin Terrier had given the raucous home fans hope with a neat 11th-minute opener.

The 21-year-old was also key to&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;taking the lead in the 64th minute from the penalty spot.

Collecting the ball out on the left-wing, he casually saw off two Lyon defenders before floating over a cross to fellow forward Edinson Cavani, who controlled the ball only for Marcal to then handle before the Uruguay striker could let his shot go.

Neymar slotted home the subsequent spot-kick after confirmation of the handball by VAR, while Marcal had to leave the field after being handed his second red card.

"I prefer to say nothing about the penalty," said Lyon boss Rudi Garcia, who side face&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;in the League Cup final next month.&nbsp;

"When you are 10 against 11 playing such a strong team it's no longer a contest."

Mbappe made sure of the Parisian's visit to the Stade de France next month with a superb solo effort with 20 minutes left, embarrassing Bruno Guimaraes and Marcelo before calmly slotting past Anthony Lopes.

Pablo Sarabia added a fourth with a stinging low strike 11 minutes later, and Mbappe completed his hat-trick in stoppage time, tapping home Neymar's cross after good work on the left from the world's most expensive footballer.

Saint-Etienne and Rennes meet in the second semi-final on Thursday.

Kylian Mbappe hit a hat-trick as Paris Saint-Germain cruised into the final of the French Cup with a thumping 5-1 win at Lyon on Wednesday. Also read: Mbappe masterclass fires PSG to 4-0 win over Dijon The World Cup winner took his goal tally in all competitions to 30 during a win that was eased by Fernando Marcal being sent off just before Neymar put the French champions ahead in the 64th minute from the penalty spot.

Kylian Mbappe hit a hat-trick as Paris Saint-Germain cruised into the final of the French Cup with a thumping 5-1 win at Lyon on Wednesday. Also read: Mbappe masterclass fires PSG to 4-0 win over Dijon The World Cup winner took his goal tally in all competitions to 30 during a win that was eased by Fernando Marcal being sent off just before Neymar put the French champions ahead in the 64th minute from the penalty spot. Also read: Ligue 1: PSG manage win against Bordeaux despite Neymar's red card The defeat Lyon ends a five-match unbeaten run that included an impressive 1-0 win over Juventus in the Champions League and the weekend's triumph over local rivals Saint-Etienne. Also read: Paris Saint Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi charged with criminal offences "It was a solid, serious display full of concentration," said PSG coach Thomas Tuchel. "After the Dortmund match (lost 2-1 in Germany), Mbappe has responded brilliantly. He uses his speed so intelligently ... he is in good form." Mbappe equalised for the away side with a simple tap-in just three minutes after Martin Terrier had given the raucous home fans hope with a neat 11th-minute opener. The 21-year-old was also key to PSG taking the lead in the 64th minute from the penalty spot. Collecting the ball out on the left-wing, he casually saw off two Lyon defenders before floating over a cross to fellow forward Edinson Cavani, who controlled the ball only for Marcal to then handle before the Uruguay striker could let his shot go. Neymar slotted home the subsequent spot-kick after confirmation of the handball by VAR, while Marcal had to leave the field after being handed his second red card. "I prefer to say nothing about the penalty," said Lyon boss Rudi Garcia, who side face PSG in the League Cup final next month. "When you are 10 against 11 playing such a strong team it's no longer a contest." Mbappe made sure of the Parisian's visit to the Stade de France next month with a superb solo effort with 20 minutes left, embarrassing Bruno Guimaraes and Marcelo before calmly slotting past Anthony Lopes. Pablo Sarabia added a fourth with a stinging low strike 11 minutes later, and Mbappe completed his hat-trick in stoppage time, tapping home Neymar's cross after good work on the left from the world's most expensive footballer. Saint-Etienne and Rennes meet in the second semi-final on Thursday.

French Cup: Mbappe treble over Lyon fires PSG into finals

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-barcelona-offered-to-restructure-salaries-to-pay-for-neymar-return-259218">Neymar</a> scored twice and created another goal but leaders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-saint-germain-and-french-football-braced-for-neymar-exit-243259">Paris Saint-Germain</a> were held to an entertaining 3-3 draw at home on Sunday by a Monaco side playing their first Ligue 1 game under new coach Robert Moreno.

The Brazilian gave PSG the lead after just two minutes at the Parc des Princes but Monaco scored two quick goals through Gelson Martins and Wissam Ben Yedder to move 2-1 ahead inside quarter of an hour.

A Fode Ballo-Toure own goal brought PSG level and Neymar restored their advantage from the penalty spot before half-time after a foul on Kylian Mbappe.

But Monaco, who also host PSG on Wednesday in a rearranged fixture, earned a point when Islam Slimani's goal was controversially awarded after it was initially ruled out for offside.

"We didn't put in our best performance but we tried.&nbsp;It was a good test. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/champions-league-monaco-eye-history-making-comeback-against-juventus-15391">Monaco</a> has a good team but we are superior and we must show it on the pitch," Neymar told Canal+.&nbsp;

"If we had played at our best we would have taken the three points.

"I think on the third goal, the fact our defender touched the ball wasn't intentional but the decision falls to the referee. They have VAR for that, we can't complain. We weren't perfect tonight either."

It was just the second time PSG have dropped points at home this season after a shock 2-0 defeat by Reims in September but the draw represented a positive start for former Spain coach Moreno, who replaced Leonardo Jardim at the end of December.

"We should be very happy. I'm very pleased with my players and I want to congratulate them for a great match," said Moreno.

"We played to our strengths on the counter-attack. We think we can beat any team and that's what I tell my players. That's our philosophy."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-stars-as-psg-snatch-draw-against-real-madrid-264752">PSG</a> had started the new year in rampant form by scoring six both times in a pair of domestic cup wins and looked on track for a 10th win in a row over Monaco after Neymar controlled a terrific Marco Verratti pass to smash home the opener.

Thomas Tuchel's side came in riding an eight-match winning streak across which they had scored 34 goals but concerns remained over the deployment of a prolific four-man attack against stronger opposition.

Monaco hit back almost immediately as Cesc Fabregas threaded a neat ball through for Ben Yedder and although he was chopped down by Keylor Navas, the rebound rolled into the path of Martins who tapped into an empty net.

The visitors soon exposed PSG again, this time Keita Balde ran at the defence before slipping across to Ben Yedder who applied a composed finish for his league-best 14th goal.

The Monaco duo almost combined to devastating effect once more on the counter, with Navas producing a fine save with his legs to thwart Senegalese forward Balde.&nbsp;

PSG equalised moments later when Neymar received the ball in the box and his snapshot took a couple of deflections the latter coming off Ballo-Toure for an own goal.

Kamil Glik headed against the post on the half-hour but PSG regained the lead on 41 minutes, Neymar converting a spot-kick after Mbappe was brought down by Martins.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russia-hit-back-to-beat-scotland-in-euro-qualifier-248242">Aleksandr Golovin</a> missed an excellent chance to level before the break while Neymar was denied a hat-trick by a sharp reflex stop from Benjamin Lecomte early in the second half.

Monaco made it 3-3 with 20 minutes to go with the help of the video assistant referee system.

The linesman raised his flag as Slimani forced in from close range but replays showed Marquinhos had knocked the ball towards the Algerian, albeit inadvertently, prompting the original offside decision to be overturned.&nbsp;

Mbappe could have won it at the death but sliced wide on the volley as PSG drew for the first time this season in the league.

Lille's miserable away form continued as they lost 1-0 at Dijon, who played for over an hour with 10 men after the dismissal of Hamza Mendyl.

Julio Tavares scored the winning goal on 47 minutes as Dijon pulled four points clear of the relegation places while Lille blew the chance to return to the top three.&nbsp;

Lille are unbeaten at home but have won just once in 10 outings on the road while losing on seven occasions.

Neymar scored twice and created another goal but leaders Paris Saint-Germain were held to an entertaining 3-3 draw at home on Sunday by a Monaco side playing their first Ligue 1 game under new coach Robert Moreno.

Neymar scored twice and created another goal but leaders Paris Saint-Germain were held to an entertaining 3-3 draw at home on Sunday by a Monaco side playing their first Ligue 1 game under new coach Robert Moreno. The Brazilian gave PSG the lead after just two minutes at the Parc des Princes but Monaco scored two quick goals through Gelson Martins and Wissam Ben Yedder to move 2-1 ahead inside quarter of an hour. A Fode Ballo-Toure own goal brought PSG level and Neymar restored their advantage from the penalty spot before half-time after a foul on Kylian Mbappe. But Monaco, who also host PSG on Wednesday in a rearranged fixture, earned a point when Islam Slimani's goal was controversially awarded after it was initially ruled out for offside. "We didn't put in our best performance but we tried. It was a good test. Monaco has a good team but we are superior and we must show it on the pitch," Neymar told Canal+. "If we had played at our best we would have taken the three points. "I think on the third goal, the fact our defender touched the ball wasn't intentional but the decision falls to the referee. They have VAR for that, we can't complain. We weren't perfect tonight either." It was just the second time PSG have dropped points at home this season after a shock 2-0 defeat by Reims in September but the draw represented a positive start for former Spain coach Moreno, who replaced Leonardo Jardim at the end of December. "We should be very happy. I'm very pleased with my players and I want to congratulate them for a great match," said Moreno. "We played to our strengths on the counter-attack. We think we can beat any team and that's what I tell my players. That's our philosophy." PSG had started the new year in rampant form by scoring six both times in a pair of domestic cup wins and looked on track for a 10th win in a row over Monaco after Neymar controlled a terrific Marco Verratti pass to smash home the opener. Thomas Tuchel's side came in riding an eight-match winning streak across which they had scored 34 goals but concerns remained over the deployment of a prolific four-man attack against stronger opposition. Monaco hit back almost immediately as Cesc Fabregas threaded a neat ball through for Ben Yedder and although he was chopped down by Keylor Navas, the rebound rolled into the path of Martins who tapped into an empty net. The visitors soon exposed PSG again, this time Keita Balde ran at the defence before slipping across to Ben Yedder who applied a composed finish for his league-best 14th goal. The Monaco duo almost combined to devastating effect once more on the counter, with Navas producing a fine save with his legs to thwart Senegalese forward Balde. PSG equalised moments later when Neymar received the ball in the box and his snapshot took a couple of deflections the latter coming off Ballo-Toure for an own goal. Kamil Glik headed against the post on the half-hour but PSG regained the lead on 41 minutes, Neymar converting a spot-kick after Mbappe was brought down by Martins. Aleksandr Golovin missed an excellent chance to level before the break while Neymar was denied a hat-trick by a sharp reflex stop from Benjamin Lecomte early in the second half. Monaco made it 3-3 with 20 minutes to go with the help of the video assistant referee system. The linesman raised his flag as Slimani forced in from close range but replays showed Marquinhos had knocked the ball towards the Algerian, albeit inadvertently, prompting the original offside decision to be overturned. Mbappe could have won it at the death but sliced wide on the volley as PSG drew for the first time this season in the league. Lille's miserable away form continued as they lost 1-0 at Dijon, who played for over an hour with 10 men after the dismissal of Hamza Mendyl. Julio Tavares scored the winning goal on 47 minutes as Dijon pulled four points clear of the relegation places while Lille blew the chance to return to the top three. Lille are unbeaten at home but have won just once in 10 outings on the road while losing on seven occasions.

Neymar shines but PSG held by Monaco in thriller

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-and-neymar-dazzle-as-psg-thrash-galatasaray-267850">Kylian Mbappe</a> is putting himself forward for the French team at next summer's Tokyo Olympics, while adding that he would not want to fight his club <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-cruise-into-league-cup-quarters-without-rested-neymar-269109">Paris Saint-Germain</a> over participation.

"Playing in the Olympics, I don't control everything," he told France Football magazine in an interview to be published on Tuesday. "Of course I want to go, but if my club, which is my employer, doesn't want me to go, I won't force a clash.

"We'll soon talk about it," said the 21-year-old, who already has a World Cup winner's medal.

Mbappe had already dropped an Olympic hint when he responded to the French team's qualification in June with a "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/more-tokyo-olympic-events-rescheduled-due-to-heat-concern-266444">TOKYO 2020</a>" tweet accompanied by a flashing emoticon and a French flag.

Olympic football at Tokyo, an under-23 tournament with each side allowed three overage players, runs from July 22 to August 8, which is also the scheduled date of the start of the French season. Mbappe is also due to play for France at the Euros which run from June 12 to July 12.

If the 21-year-old Parisian star were to be called up by Olympic coach Sylvian Ripoll, he would take his holiday at the start of the club season.&nbsp;

The striker said he had discussed a possible appearance at the Games with France senior coach Didier Deschamps.&nbsp;

"The coach was adamant that it would never be to the detriment of the Euro," Mbappe said. "I reassured him by telling him that I also wanted to play in the Euro, and he said: 'So it's up to you to deal with the people it concerns'.

"If I don't manage to go in 2020, I'll still have 2024 left, in Paris," Mbappe said. "I'd really like to do the Olympics at least once in my career."

Kylian Mbappe is putting himself forward for the French team at next summer's Tokyo Olympics, while adding that he would not want to fight his club Paris Saint-Germain over participation.

Kylian Mbappe is putting himself forward for the French team at next summer's Tokyo Olympics, while adding that he would not want to fight his club Paris Saint-Germain over participation. "Playing in the Olympics, I don't control everything," he told France Football magazine in an interview to be published on Tuesday. "Of course I want to go, but if my club, which is my employer, doesn't want me to go, I won't force a clash. "We'll soon talk about it," said the 21-year-old, who already has a World Cup winner's medal. Mbappe had already dropped an Olympic hint when he responded to the French team's qualification in June with a "TOKYO 2020" tweet accompanied by a flashing emoticon and a French flag. Olympic football at Tokyo, an under-23 tournament with each side allowed three overage players, runs from July 22 to August 8, which is also the scheduled date of the start of the French season. Mbappe is also due to play for France at the Euros which run from June 12 to July 12. If the 21-year-old Parisian star were to be called up by Olympic coach Sylvian Ripoll, he would take his holiday at the start of the club season. The striker said he had discussed a possible appearance at the Games with France senior coach Didier Deschamps. "The coach was adamant that it would never be to the detriment of the Euro," Mbappe said. "I reassured him by telling him that I also wanted to play in the Euro, and he said: 'So it's up to you to deal with the people it concerns'. "If I don't manage to go in 2020, I'll still have 2024 left, in Paris," Mbappe said. "I'd really like to do the Olympics at least once in my career."

Kylian Mbappe adds Olympic appearance to packed 2020 wish list

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