Ekitike Opens His Account as France Seal World Cup Qualification
France secured their place at the upcoming World Cup with a commanding 4-0 win over Ukraine in Paris, a night that also marked Hugo Ekitike’s first senior international goal. The Liverpool forward, still early in his international journey, came off the bench to cap off Les Bleus’ dominant display at Parc des Princes with a well-taken finish that underlined both his confidence and his promise.
Ekitike’s Breakthrough Moment
Introduced late in the second half, Ekitike wasted no time making an impression. Picking up the ball on the left edge of the area, he drove forward with pace before slotting calmly past the Ukrainian goalkeeper. It was a moment of composure and technical assurance – the kind that has defined his development since his move to the Premier League.
His goal added a final flourish to a French performance that had already assured qualification from Group B. The victory ensured France finished top of their group with a game to spare, extending an unbeaten qualifying run that once again showcased the nation’s remarkable depth of attacking talent.
For Ekitike, this was more than just a milestone. It was a sign that his adaptation to international football is progressing smoothly, and that Didier Deschamps’ trust in his youthful exuberance is starting to pay dividends.
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France Show Strength in Depth
Even with several senior figures rotated, France were ruthless. Kylian Mbappé and Antoine Griezmann dictated the tempo, while the defensive line – anchored by William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano – ensured a clean sheet with minimal fuss.
Ibrahima Konaté, Ekitike’s club teammate, remained an unused substitute, but his inclusion in the squad again reflects Deschamps’ confidence in the Liverpool defender’s long-term role for Les Bleus.
France’s latest qualification campaign has been a story of control and evolution. With emerging players like Ekitike blending into a core of experienced stars, the reigning world champions appear well placed to mount another serious challenge on the global stage.
Szoboszlai Delivers for Hungary
Elsewhere in Europe, Dominik Szoboszlai was instrumental as Hungary edged Armenia 1-0 in a crucial qualifier. The Hungarian captain provided a pinpoint cross for Barnabás Varga to nod home the decisive goal, a contribution that keeps Hungary’s hopes of topping Group F alive.
Szoboszlai’s influence continues to grow, not only through his set-piece precision but also his leadership. Alongside teammate Milos Kerkez, he guided Hungary to within two points of group leaders Portugal, setting up a tense finale to their qualification campaign.
Promising Signs at Youth Level
At Under-21 level, Liverpool’s Kieran Morrison featured prominently for Northern Ireland, playing 75 minutes in their 1-0 victory over Latvia. The result bolsters Northern Ireland’s position in their European Championship qualifying group. Meanwhile, Hungarian youngster Armin Pecsi started in his side’s comfortable 3-0 friendly win against the Faroe Islands – another encouraging performance for a nation producing a new generation of technical talent.
Ekitike’s breakthrough for France encapsulates the promise that Liverpool saw when securing his signature. His maiden international goal serves as a reminder of his growing influence, and with both club and country reaping the benefits, his trajectory is one that could define the next phase of French football’s attacking evolution.
