France national football team secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Senegal national football team in their opening Group I match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Kylian Mbappe delivering a match-winning performance.
After a tightly contested first half, Mbappe broke the deadlock in the 66th minute to hand France the lead.
The French forward was brilliantly set up by Michael Olise, whose creativity proved crucial for Didier Deschamps’ side throughout the encounter.
France doubled their advantage in the 82nd minute when Bradley Barcola found the back of the net, putting the European giants firmly in control of the contest.
Senegal refused to give up and pulled a goal back deep into stoppage time through Mbaye I., who scored in the 90+5th minute to reduce the deficit to 2-1 and briefly raise hopes of a dramatic comeback.
However, France responded immediately. Just a minute later, Mbappe struck again in the 90+6th minute to restore his side’s two-goal cushion and seal a 3-1 victory.
Once again, Michael Olise was the provider, assisting both of Mbappe’s goals in a standout creative display.
The result gives France a perfect start to their World Cup campaign, while Mbappe’s brace and Olise’s two assists underlined the attacking quality that makes Les Bleus one of the favourites for the title.
With Barcola also getting on the scoresheet, France sent a strong message to their Group I rivals as they opened their tournament with an impressive win over Senegal.