Catch live updates as two-time champions France kick off their FIFA WC 2026 campaign in a Group I blockbuster against African powerhouse Senegal at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
Kylian Mbappe scored twice in the second half to lead France past Senegal 3-1 after a scoreless first half. Breaking records, Mbappe reached 58 international goals, surpassing Olivier Giroud as France's all-time top scorer, and hit 14 career World Cup goals, moving ahead of Lionel Messi and Pele.
Mbappe opened the scoring in the 66th minute, and substitute Bradley Barcola doubled the lead in the 82nd. Ibrahim Mbaye pulled one back for Senegal deep in stoppage time, but Mbappé immediately responded with a spectacular long-range strike to seal the Group I victory.
Updates
FT: France 3-1 Senegal
There goes the final whistle! The referee calls time after ten minutes of stoppage time, bringing an action-packed second half to an end with France securing a hard-fought 3-1 victory.
GOAL FOR FRANCE!! MBAPPE MAKES HISTORY AGAIN!
Just moments after Senegal pulled one back, Kylian Mbappé hits back instantly! He unleashes a sensational long-range strike to score his 58th international goal, moving completely clear of Olivier Giroud as France’s standalone all-time top goalscorer!
Double Substitution for Senegal
Senegal makes a tactical double change in the 83rd minute. Nicolas Jackson makes way for Bamba Dieng upfront, while Iliman Ndiaye comes on to replace Pape Gueye in midfield.
Barcola doubles the lead for France!
GOAL FOR FRANCE!! Bradley Barcola doubles the lead! France goes 2-0 up in the 82nd minute, putting Les Bleus firmly in control late in the game.
GOAL FOR FRANCE!!
Kylian Mbappe hits the back of the net! With this strike, Mbappé celebrates his 99th international cap by scoring his 57th goal for his country, pulling level with Olivier Giroud as France’s joint all-time top scorer!
57' — Big save by Mendy
Kylian Mbappé bursts through and drives a low effort toward the bottom corner, but the Senegal goalkeeper reacts brilliantly to block it away with his left leg.
Half Time
It’s stalemate at the break as the referee calls time on the first period. Both France and Senegal head into the tunnels locked at 0-0.
Chance for Senegal!
Ismalla Sarr blazes the ball over the crossbar from point-blank range, missing a golden opportunity to punish some incredibly sloppy French defending.
Foul
The referee blows the whistle as Senegal's Pape Gueye goes in too aggressively and concedes a foul.
Mane's attempt at goal
Chance for Senegal! Sadio Mane lets fly with an effort on goal.
8' — Offside!
Nicolas Jackson (Senegal) is caught straying past the last defender.
Senegal Line Up
4-3-3
France Line Up
4-2-3-1
Excitement peaks as France lock horns with Senegal in a FIFA World Cup Group I thriller.
Steeped in history, the iconic matchup between France and Senegal instantly brings to mind Senegal's legendary 1-0 shock victory over the reigning champions back in 2002.
Published: 17 Jun 2026, 12:42 am IST
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