France would only win at home against Kazakhstan, everything else would be a total failure. Thanks to Kylian Mbappé, the French home crowd was not disappointed.
The first goal came in the sixth minute of the match. Theo Fernandez found Mbappé, who coolly rolled in 1-0 next to the left post.
Five minutes later he had extended that lead, this time played by Kingsley Coman after a pattern counterattack by the French.
Before the half Mbappé did attempt a finish, but from an awkward position, sending the ball into the away fans. Again played by Coman, Mbappé found the ball with his forehead and sent it into the net to 3-0. France eventually won 8-0, after another goal from Mbappé.
Belgium secured their World Cup ticket by defeating Estonia 3-1 at home.
Behind Belgium, Wales strengthened its playoff shares with a 5-1 victory against Belarus. Wales have three points and one goal to spare in the Czech Republic before the final round.
The Netherlands missed the chance to secure their direct place. A late goal from Montenegro gave 2-2 after full time.
The Netherlands are now only two points ahead of Turkey and Norway before the final round.
Good news for Norway, who lost their grip on second place. Only 0-0 at home against Latvia means that Turkey, who won their match against Gibraltar 6-0, steps past the Norwegians before the final round of the World Cup qualifiers.
Turkey and Norway are on the same score, and after tonight’s big victory, it is Turkey who has the advantage of a better goal difference. Norway will face the Netherlands in the final round, while Turkey will face Montenegro.
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