World Cup 2026: Mbappe Braces as France Secure Hard-Fought Opening Win Over Senegal

France kicked off their 2026 World Cup campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Senegal on Tuesday at MetLife Stadium, claiming an early advantage in Group I.

Despite a resilient Senegalese defense, Les Bleus finally broke the deadlock in the 67th minute through talisman Kylian Mbappé. Bradley Barcola then doubled the lead in the 82nd minute, seemingly putting the game out of reach for the African champions.

The closing moments, however, delivered late drama. Ibrahim Mbaye handed Senegal a lifeline, pulling one back in the fifth minute of stoppage time (90+5′). Yet, the hope was short-lived; just a minute later (90+6′), Mbappé struck again with a sublime finish to restore the two-goal cushion and cap off a brilliant individual performance.