France have launched their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in emphatic fashion, defeating Senegal 3-1 at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Kylian Mbappé was the undisputed star of the show, scoring twice to inspire his side to a convincing victory on June 16, 2026.
France were far from their fluent best in the first half, struggling to cope with Senegal’s pace and directness in transition throughout the opening period.
However, Didier Deschamps’ side gained control after the break and completely outplayed their opponents in the second half to secure maximum points.
Mbappé’s brace moved him to 14 World Cup goals in total, with only Miroslav Klose on 16 and Ronaldo on 15 having scored more in the history of the competition.
Michael Olise earned an impressive 8.5/10 rating after a superb creative performance, with his assist for Mbappé’s opener standing out as a moment of genuine quality.
Substitute Bradley Barcola also made a decisive impact, scoring the goal that effectively killed off Senegal’s hopes of a comeback and earning himself an 8/10 rating.
Adrien Rabiot contributed meaningfully in midfield and also created the second goal of the game for Barcola after coming through a difficult opening period.
Dayot Upamecano impressed defensively with a 7/10 display, looking dominant in aerial duels for the Bayern Munich centre-back, though he was occasionally exposed when Senegal attacked with speed.
Goalkeeper Mike Maignan received a 6/10 rating after a largely quiet evening, though he should have done better to prevent Senegal’s consolation goal late in the contest.
France won the World Cup in 2018 and finished as runners-up in 2022, and Deschamps will be encouraged by much of what he saw from his squad on this occasion.
Ousmane Dembélé stretched Senegal’s defence throughout and earned a 7/10 rating, while Aurélien Tchouaméni grew into the match and offered vital midfield control in the second period.
William Saliba and Jules Koundé both received 6.5/10 ratings for solid defensive contributions, with Saliba’s composure on the ball particularly helping France build from the back under pressure.
France will be hoping to build on this positive start as the tournament progresses, with Mbappé’s clinical finishing once again demonstrating exactly why he remains one of the world’s elite players.
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