France demolish Senegal in masterclass performance

France defeated Senegal 3–1 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener at MetLife Stadium, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice to become France’s all-time leading scorer. Bradley Barcola added a crucial second goal, while Ibrahim Mbaye netted a late consolation for Senegal.

The opening 45 minutes were tense and cagey. Senegal pressed aggressively, with Sadio Mané and Ismaïla Sarr testing France’s backline. Despite their energy, they couldn’t break through Mike Maignan’s goal. France, meanwhile, looked sluggish, struggling to impose their rhythm. The half ended goalless, leaving fans wondering if Senegal could repeat their famous 2002 upset.

The game shifted dramatically in the second half. In the 66th minute, Michael Olise slipped a precise pass to Kylian Mbappé, who calmly slotted home to give France the lead. This goal equaled Olivier Giroud’s record of 57 international goals. Mbappé’s pace and composure lifted France, forcing Senegal onto the back foot.

Didier Deschamps’ substitutions proved decisive. Bradley Barcola, introduced late in the game, doubled France’s advantage in the 82nd minute with a composed finish after Adrien Rabiot’s assist. His strike gave France breathing room and showcased the squad’s depth, underlining why Les Bleus are considered tournament favorites.

Senegal refused to fold. In stoppage time, Ibrahim Mbaye curled a superb shot past Maignan in the 90’+5 minute, sparking hope of a comeback. However, just seconds later, Mbappé responded with a thunderous strike from outside the box, his 58th international goal, cementing his place as France’s all-time top scorer. The match ended 3–1, with Mbappé named Man of the Match.

Key Stats

• Possession: France 54% – Senegal 46%
• Shots on target: France 8 – Senegal 2
• Corners: France 6 – Senegal 4
• Man of the Match: Kylian Mbappé (2 goals, record-breaking performance)

France’s victory gives them 3 points in Group I, setting the tone for their campaign. Senegal, despite their spirited display, will need to regroup quickly ahead of their next fixture against Norway. For France, Mbappé’s brilliance and squad depth reaffirm their status as favorites, while Senegal showed resilience but lacked the finishing edge.