Kylian Mbappé struck twice as France national football team opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dramatic 3-1 victory over Senegal national football team in a tense Group I clash at the New York/New Jersey Stadium on Tuesday.
It was a match layered with history and late drama — a fixture that revived memories of one of football’s great World Cup shocks, Senegal’s 1-0 win over France in the 2002 tournament opener.
This time, however, France ensured there would be no repeat of that script.
After a cagey and tactical first half, Mbappé finally broke Senegal’s resistance after the restart, giving Les Bleus control of the contest.
Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola added creativity and urgency as France pressed for a second goal, stretching Senegal’s disciplined defensive line.
The game exploded in stoppage time.
Ibrahim Mbaye scored via an assist from substitute Iliman Ndiaye pulling one back for Senegal in the 90+5th minute, briefly setting up a tense finish and echoing the unpredictability that has long defined World Cup openers.
But France responded almost instantly. Mbappé struck again a minute later to complete his brace and kill off Senegal’s momentum in ruthless fashion, sealing all three points for Didier Deschamps’ side.
Hence, Mbappé sets joint record for most international goals for the French national team – matching 57 goals as with senior compatriot, Olivier Giroud.
The result gives France an early lead in Group I and a strong platform heading into their next assignment, with FIFA’s schedule confirming a quick turnaround as Les Bleus prepare for their second group fixture against Iraq national football team.
Senegal, meanwhile, will regroup ahead of their next Group I encounter against Norway national football team, with qualification hopes still alive but now under early pressure.
A night of history, late chaos, and Mbappé brilliance — France begin their World Cup journey with a statement, PUNCH Online reports.
Tosin Oyediran is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over eight years of professional experience in reporting and storytelling. He is known for conducting incisive interviews and producing compelling human-angle stories that bring clarity and depth to the news. Tosin covers a broad range of beats including politics, health, advocacy, sports, and entertainment, with a strong focus on people-centred reporting. His work reflects firsthand newsroom experience, editorial insight, and a commitment to accurate, engaging, and trustworthy journalism.
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