Mbappe Double Sinks Senegal as France Open Group I in Style

France began their 2026 World Cup campaign with a controlled 3-1 victory over Senegal at MetLife Stadium, captain Kylian Mbappe leading the way with a brace either side of a Bradley Barcola strike. The world's top-ranked side were patient against a physical African champions before pulling clear late.

Mbappe makes the difference

The opening hour was a tense, even affair, with Senegal pressing aggressively and limiting France's space. The deadlock broke on 66 minutes when Mbappe finished clinically to settle Les Bleus' nerves. Barcola doubled the lead on 82 minutes, capitalising on a tiring Senegalese back line as the contest opened up.

Late drama at MetLife

Senegal refused to fold and pulled one back through Mbaye in the 95th minute, briefly threatening a grandstand finish. But Mbappe had the final word, completing his double deep into stoppage time on 90+6 to seal the result and underline France's status as group favourites.

The win sent France top of Group I on the opening day and exposed Senegal's vulnerability in transition, a concern Aliou Cisse's successors will need to address quickly with Norway and Iraq still to come.