France beats Senegal 3-1 in World Cup 2026 group stage

France opened its 2026 World Cup campaign with a 3-1 victory over Senegal in the first match of Group 9. Kylian Mbappé scored a brace, opening the scoring in the 66th minute and adding two late goals in stoppage time, while Bradly Parkola added a second goal for France. Ibrahim Mbay reduced the deficit for Senegal deep into added time, but France secured the win.

President Emmanuel Macron sent a congratulatory message to the French team, praising the performance and confirming his intention to attend the final on 19 July. The result placed France atop the group ahead of their upcoming match against Iraq, while Senegal must seek a comeback against Norway to stay in contention for the knockout stage.