France defeats Senegal 3-1 in World Cup 2026 Group‑9 opener

France began its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 3‑1 victory over Senegal at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 16 June 2026. Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring in the 66th minute, added a second in stoppage time (90+6) and became France’s all‑time top scorer, while substitute Brice Barcola added a second goal in the 82nd minute. Senegal’s lone goal came from teenager Ibrahim Mbaye in the 90+5 minute.

The win gave the French side three points and a strong start in Group 9, which also includes Norway and Iraq. The match took place in the first edition of the tournament to feature 48 teams, co‑hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

France’s performance underscores its status as a tournament favourite, while Senegal’s early exit from the scoreboard highlights the growing competitiveness of emerging football nations in the expanded format.