Hugo Ekitike announced his arrival on the international stage in spectacular fashion as he made his first-ever start for the French national team. The Liverpool forward didn’t just participate — he made an instant impact, providing a decisive assist for Kylian Mbappé in France’s dominant 3-0 win against Azerbaijan. It was a night that marked a new chapter in the young striker’s promising career and hinted at even greater things to come.
Ekitike’s performance was full of confidence, flair, and intelligence. Linking up with Real Madrid superstar Mbappé, the pair caused havoc for the Azerbaijani defense from the opening minutes. Ekitike’s clever movement and precise passing allowed France to control the rhythm of the game, while his assist for Mbappé showed both awareness and unselfishness — qualities every top forward needs on the international stage.
Throughout the game, the 22-year-old displayed impressive composure for someone making his first start in a France shirt. His chemistry with Mbappé looked natural, as the two exchanged quick passes and created several goal-scoring opportunities. The partnership was exciting to watch and gave fans a glimpse of what could become one of France’s most dangerous attacking duos in future tournaments.
France’s 3-0 victory was not only a reflection of their attacking strength but also a sign of the squad’s depth and the emergence of new talent ready to complement the established stars. Ekitike’s contribution stood out, earning him praise from teammates and supporters alike. His energy, vision, and ability to rise to the occasion proved that he belongs among the elite in Didier Deschamps’ squad.
For Ekitike, this match was more than just a debut — it was a statement. After showcasing his potential in the Premier League with Liverpool, he has now made his mark on the international scene. If he continues this trajectory, there’s little doubt that Hugo Ekitike will become a key figure in France’s attacking plans for years to come, forming an electrifying partnership with Mbappé that could dominate world football.
