Mbappé Double Powers France Past a Spirited Senegal 3–1

France began their World Cup 2026 campaign the way the pre-tournament favourites were expected to — with a win — but Senegal made them earn every yard of it before a 3–1 scoreline at MetLife Stadium flattered Les Bleus slightly.

For long stretches this was a genuine contest between two of the most talented squads in the tournament. In the end, the difference was the man France have built their hopes around: Kylian Mbappé.

A Cagey First Half

The opening 45 minutes were tight and tactical. Senegal, powerful and athletic across the pitch, matched France physically and pressed with intelligence, denying the French midfield time on the ball. Chances were scarce, and the sides went in level at the break with the contest finely balanced.

France needed a moment of individual quality to break the deadlock — and they have the player who specialises in exactly that.

Mbappé Makes the Difference

Mbappé struck in the 66th minute, accelerating onto a through ball and finishing with the composure that has defined his career. It was the goal the game had been waiting for, and it visibly settled France.

Bradley Barcola added a second on 82 minutes, capitalising on a Senegalese defence that had been forced to push forward in search of an equaliser. Senegal refused to fold, and Mbaye pulled one back deep into stoppage time (90+5) to set up a nervous finish.

But Mbappé had the final word, racing clear in the sixth minute of added time to complete his brace and restore France's two-goal cushion at 3–1.

What It Means

France top the early Group I standings and, crucially, got the win without hitting top gear — a sign of a side with depth and a match-winner in form. Didier Deschamps will know his team can play far better, but starting a World Cup with three points and Mbappé among the goals is exactly what was required.

Senegal, beaten finalists of African football's recent era, will be disappointed to leave with nothing after a performance full of quality and heart. On another night, their late rally might have earned a point. They remain a serious threat to advance from the group.

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