France opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a 3-1 victory over Senegal, with Kylian Mbappe becoming Les Bleus’ all-time leading scorer after netting twice in New York New Jersey Stadium.
Mbappe’s goals in the 66th minute and deep into stoppage time took his tally for France to 58, moving him past Olivier Giroud’s record of 57 goals.
Bradley Barcola also scored for Didier Deschamps’ side in the 82nd minute, while Ibrahim Mbaye grabbed a late consolation goal for Senegal.
The result ensured there would be no repeat of France’s shock opening defeat to Senegal at the 2002 World Cup, although the West Africans looked the more dangerous side in the first half.
Nicolas Jackson came close after seeing an effort deflect off the post and goalkeeper Mike Maignan, while another strike from the Chelsea forward was ruled out for offside. Ismaila Sarr also squandered a promising opportunity.
France improved significantly after the interval. Desire Doue tested Edouard Mendy before Michael Olise and Mbappe forced the Senegal goalkeeper into a pair of saves.
The breakthrough arrived when Olise’s through ball found Mbappe, who finished past Mendy to equal Giroud’s goalscoring record.
Substitute Barcola doubled France’s advantage before Ibrahim Mbaye reduced the deficit in stoppage time. However, Mbappe sealed the victory moments later with a strike from outside the area to write his name into French football history.
France’s victory leaves them level on three points with Norway at the top of Group I, with Norway holding a superior goal difference following their 4-1 win over Iraq.
The match was also Deschamps’ 20th World Cup game as France coach, drawing him level with Bora Milutinovic, Oscar Tabarez and Mario Zagallo. Only three managers have overseen more matches at the tournament.
France next face Iraq, while Senegal will look to bounce back against Norway.
FIFA
