KYLIAN MBAPPE has hailed “GOAT” Cristiano Ronaldo and Marcus Rashford – after initially irking England fans.
The France striker celebrated with a huge mocking laugh when Three Lions‘ skipper Harry Kane missed a late match-saving penalty in the World Cup quarter-final.
But he responded positively after icon Ronaldo and England sub Rashford posted touching messages following their weekend exits from Qatar.
Manchester United discard Ron, 37, hinted he is considering his international future after appearing to accept his greatest remaining dream – Portugal winning the World Cup – is now over.
Mbappe replied to the social media post with a GOAL emoji.
And when Rashford posted to say England had given everything, Mbappe sent a heart emoji.
France are now favourites to retain their 2018 crown.
They face Portugal’s shock conquerors Morocco, whilst Argentina take on Croatia in the other semi-final,
Meanwhile, five-goal Mbappe is on course to win the Golden Boot.
Second-half sub Ronaldo was in tears as he departed down the tunnel early following Morocco’s 1-0 victory.
BETTING SPECIAL – BEST BETTING APPS FOR THE WORLD CUP
He later posted: “Winning a World Cup for Portugal was the biggest and most ambitious dream of my career.
“I fought for it. I fought hard for this dream. In the 5 presences that I scored in World Cups over 16 years, always alongside great players and supported by millions of Portuguese people, I gave my all. I left everything on the field. I never turned my face to the fight and I never gave up on that dream.
Unfortunately, yesterday the dream ended. It is not worth reacting hot. I just want everyone to know that much has been said, much has been written, much has been speculated, but my dedication to Portugal has not changed for an instant.
“I was always one more person fighting for everyone’s goal and I would never turn my back on my teammates and my country.
“For now, there’s not much more to say. Thank you, Portugal. Thank you, Qatar.
“The dream was beautiful while it lasted… Now, it’s time to be a good advisor and allow each one to draw their own conclusions.”
Rashford’s own message was shorter but equally from the heart.
The Red Devils’ frontman, came on in the 85th minute, just after Kane had failed to repeat his earlier spot-kick leveller.
And with France clinging on to triumph 2-1, Rashford told his 13.2million Instagram followers: “The last few weeks have been a rollercoaster of emotions, each and every one of our team gave everything we had to be ready for what was thrown at us, we got close, but not close enough.
“I’ll make a promise that we will come again! Thank you for the unconditional support we have received throughout the tournament, it hasn’t gone unnoticed.”
