France defeated Senegal 3-1 in their opening Group I match of the 2026 World Cup at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 16, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4]. Kylian Mbappe scored twice for France, netting in the 66th minute and again during second-half stoppage time to reach 58 international goals, surpassing Olivier Giroud’s previous French record of 57 goals [2, 3]. Giroud congratulated Mbappe, saying, "Congrats, Kylian. You made it. I'm really happy for him." [2]
Bradley Barcola added France’s third goal after coming on as a substitute [3, 4]. Senegal pulled one back in stoppage time through Ibrahim Mbaye, but it was not enough to avoid defeat [4].
France coach Didier Deschamps started a lineup featuring defenders William Saliba, Jules Kounde, Dayot Upamecano, and Theo Hernandez, while opting for an attack-heavy four-man frontline with Mbappe joined by Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembele, and Desire Doue [1, 3]. Deschamps prioritized offensive strength over midfield protection in his setup [3].
Senegal fielded a team led by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy and captain Kalidou Koulibaly in defense, with midfielders Idrissa Gana Gueye and Lamine Camara starting [1]. Senegal coach Pape Thiaw said his team must "improve defensive aggression and attacking efficiency" after the loss. He added, "Sometimes we had a low line block and we were very passive on the pitch and we need to be more aggressive for the ball carriers so that certain passes don't happen like (when France scored)." He stressed Senegal still had "chances" in the group with two matches remaining [4].
After the match, France defender Malo Gusto, who did not start against Senegal, expressed ambition to fight for a starting spot. He acknowledged Jules Kounde as the preferred right back but said, "I came here to play, that's why I'm here. The coach makes his choices. I'll be ready whatever happens and I'll give everything for the shirt whenever I'm on the pitch." [5]
In other World Cup action, Cape Verde held Uruguay to a 2-2 draw in Group H on June 21, 2026. Cape Verde scored their first-ever World Cup goal through a Kevin Pina free kick in the 21st minute. Uruguay responded with two goals before half time assisted by Maxi Araujo. Cape Verde substitute Helio Varela equalized in the second half [6, 7].
