After the 2026 FIFA World Cup third-place play-off, where France lost 4-6 to England, France striker Mbappe spoke to the media.

After answering questions from reporters, Mbappe also hugged England coach Tuchel.

Kilian, how are you feeling after everything that just happened?

I don't know. I think this game presented two completely different halves. In the first half, I can understand why some people might feel we were joking around, or even disrespecting the jersey. I'd rather say that we were too much like "ordinary people" then, and unfortunately, in this position, we can't allow ourselves to be so mediocre. We were completely stunned then, and only later were we fully awakened.

In the second half, we regained our status as top players, turning into mentally strong machines, shedding all emotions. We did what we had to do, won the second half, but ultimately couldn't change the outcome. I think this is especially regrettable for the coach; we wanted to win this game for him. Unfortunately, our performance in the first half made it feel like we let him down, and that's absolutely not the attitude we wanted to convey. But that's football. We have to thank the coach for everything he's done, because this one game will never erase Didier Deschamps' legendary status. "

If there's one positive tonight – and there is one – it's that you became the all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history tonight. At least for the next 24 hours, because you're currently one goal ahead of Messi. We'll have to wait for the results of tomorrow's final. But on an emotional and personal goal level, what does this mean to you? Everything you've achieved is simply incredible.

As I said, Messi has been scoring, and he will definitely score tomorrow, there's no doubt about it. I just try to help the team by scoring goals in every game. Of course, scoring so many goals in the FIFA World Cup really puts you in a special place. But I'd rather not be the all-time leading scorer and instead play in tomorrow's final. I think it has meaning for one's personal historical status, and when we look back after retirement, we can see that we were a part of it. But today, that's not what's foremost in my mind.

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