World Cup Round-Up (Day 15) – France and England Cruise Into Quarter-Finals

05/12/22 863

France and England both scored three goals as they coasted into the quarter-finals on Sunday. Les Blues beat Poland 3-1 to secure their place in the last eight before the Three Lions crushed Senegal 3-0.

It was a memorable day for Olivier Giroud, who became France’s all-time record goalscorer. But once again, Kylian Mbappe stole the show. Meanwhile, England produced an impressive team performance to overcome the African champions.

It’s time to discuss all the big talking points from Day 15 of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Giroud Breaks Record as France Knock Out Poland

France took a while to get going against Poland at Al Thumama Stadium. However, Giroud finally broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time – netting his 52nd international goal to break Thierry Henry’s record.

The defending champions dominated after the break, with Mbappe bagging a brace. Both strikes were of the highest quality and ensured that France would reach the quarter-finals.

Robert Lewandowski scored a late consolation goal from the penalty spot. The Barcelona striker had his first effort saved by Hugo Lloris, but the France goalkeeper left his line. In the 99th minute, Lewandowski converted at the second attempt.

But it was as case of too little, too late for Poland. Thanks to the brilliance of Giroud and Mbappe, the reigning World Cup champions remain on course to defend their crown.

England Produce Dominant Display to Dispatch Senegal

Like France, England didn’t start particularly well against Senegal. The Africa Cup of Nations champions created a couple of chance of their own early on, putting the Three Lions under pressure.

However, on 38 minutes, Jordan Henderson converted Jude Bellingham’s cross to put England ahead. And when Harry Kane doubled England’s lead in first-half stoppage time, Gareth Southgate’s men could breathe a little easier.

After setting up Kane’s goal, Phil Foden grabbed his second assist of the night when he teed up Bukayo Saka for England’s third. With less than an hour on the clock, the Three Lions had all but sealed the deal.

The 2018 semi-finalists saw out the game without any real problems, with Senegal recording a solitary shot on target throughout the contest. The Lions of Teranga finished the game with 38% possession, too.

England will now face France in the quarter-finals at Al Bayt Stadium on Saturday night.