France launched their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Senegal in first match of Grup Stage, Group I at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford.
Didier Deschamps’ side extended their impressive record of winning opening World Cup matches, but unlike previous tournament debuts against Australia and Honduras, this triumph came against one of the strongest teams in the competition.
For much of the evening, Senegal looked capable of producing another famous World Cup upset against France, recalling their historic 1-0 victory over Les Bleus at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
The reigning African champions were the more dangerous side during the opening hour and repeatedly tested the French defence.
Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson came closest in the 25th minute when his effort struck the post, while the lively Ismaïla Sarr caused constant problems down the flank. France also relied on crucial interventions from central defenders to prevent Senegal from capitalising on several dangerous situations.
Despite enjoying more possession, France struggled to create clear-cut chances before halftime as Senegal’s disciplined defensive structure frustrated the 2018 world champions.
The turning point arrived after the break when Deschamps altered his attacking setup, allowing Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise to interchange positions more frequently.
The tactical adjustment immediately gave France greater attacking fluidity and stretched the Senegalese backline.
After missing a one-on-one opportunity and seeing penalty appeals waved away, captain Kylian Mbappé finally broke the deadlock in the 65th minute. Olise slipped a perfectly weighted pass into the path of the Real Madrid superstar, who calmly fired a low finish across goal to make it 1-0.
The breakthrough lifted the pressure from France and allowed them to take control of proceedings.
France doubled their advantage eight minutes from time through Bradley Barcola, who produced a composed chipped finish after another flowing attacking move.
With Senegal pushing forward in search of a way back into the contest, Mbappé delivered the decisive moment deep into stoppage time. The French captain unleashed a spectacular long-range strike into the net to complete his brace and secure a commanding 3-0 lead.
The goal carried historic significance for the 27-year-old forward.
Mbappé moved to the top of France’s all-time scoring charts with his 58th international goal, surpassing legendary striker Olivier Giroud. He also eclipsed Just Fontaine’s long-standing record for the most World Cup goals scored by a French player.
Senegal managed a late consolation when Ibrahim Mbaye capitalised on a rare handling error from goalkeeper Mike Maignan in stoppage time, but the goal had little impact on the final outcome.
The victory temporarily sends France to the top of Group I and puts Les Bleus in a strong position to secure qualification for the knockout stage.
While the scoreline suggests a comfortable evening, the match served as a reminder that France will need to improve defensively against stronger opponents later in the tournament.
For Senegal, the defeat was harsh on a side that matched France for long periods and created several excellent opportunities. However, the African champions will take encouragement from their performance as they prepare for crucial matches ahead.
Credit Photo : FFF
