France began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Senegal in a Group I clash on Tuesday. Led by a brilliant performance from Kylian Mbappé, the two-time world champions secured all three points and strengthened their status as one of the tournament favorites.
Mbappe scored twice in the second half, while Bradley Barcola added another goal as France overcame a spirited challenge from Senegal.
The win gave coach Didier Deschamps a positive start in what will be his final major tournament in charge of the French national team.
Senegal Dominated the first half.
Despite the final scoreline, Senegal looked the stronger side during the opening 45 minutes.
The African champions created several dangerous opportunities and nearly took the lead midway through the first half. Nicolas Jackson struck the post after breaking through France’s defence, while goalkeeper Mike Maignan was fortunate to see the ball roll wide.
Shortly before halftime, Ismaïla Sarr missed another excellent chance, sending his effort over the crossbar.
France struggled to create clear openings during the first half and entered the break relieved to still be level.
Tactical Change Transforms France
The turning point came after halftime when Deschamps altered his attacking setup.
Michael Olise moved into a more central role, allowing him to influence the game more effectively. The adjustment immediately caused problems for Senegal’s defence.
Olise first tested goalkeeper Édouard Mendy before creating several dangerous chances.
Although France were denied a penalty after a VAR review involving a challenge on Mbappe, the breakthrough soon arrived.
Mbappe Breaks the Deadlock
In the 66th minute, Olise delivered a perfectly weighted pass into the penalty area. Mbappe timed his run brilliantly and calmly finished to give France a 1-0 lead.
The goal shifted momentum completely in France’s favour.
As Senegal pushed forward in search of an equalizer, France found more space in attack.
Barcola Doubles France’s Advantage
France extended their lead late in the match through substitute Barcola.
A precise pass from Adrien Rabiot sent the Paris Saint-Germain winger through on goal. Barcola kept his composure and finished confidently to make it 2-0.
The goal appeared to seal the contest.
Late Drama in Stoppage Time
Senegal refused to give up and pulled a goal back in stoppage time through Ibrahim Mbaye, raising hopes of a dramatic comeback.
However, Mbappe ended those hopes moments later.
The Real Madrid star unleashed a powerful long-range strike deep into added time to restore France’s two-goal advantage and complete his brace.
The stunning finish capped an outstanding individual performance.
Mbappe Creates More World Cup History
The two goals took Mbappe’s World Cup tally to 14 goals, moving him ahead of football legends including Pelé, Lionel Messi, and Just Fontaine.
He now sits level with Gerd Müller on the all-time World Cup scoring list.
Only Ronaldo Nazário with 15 goals and Miroslav Klose with 16 goals remain ahead of him.
Additionally, Mbappe’s second goal made him France’s all-time leading scorer with 58 international goals.
What Comes Next for France?
France will now look to build on this winning start as they continue their Group I campaign.
Their next match will be against Iraq before a highly anticipated clash with Erling Haaland and Norway.
With Mbappe in outstanding form, France will be confident about progressing deep into the tournament and challenging for a third World Cup title.