France launched their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in emphatic fashion on Tuesday, defeating Senegal 3-1 in a pulsating Group I encounter that saw captain Kylian Mbappé write his name into the record books.
The French skipper struck twice to become France’s all-time leading goalscorer, surpassing the previous mark held by Olivier Giroud, as Didier Deschamps’ side overcame a spirited Senegalese challenge to secure all three points.
Despite the final scoreline, Senegal showed little fear against the 2022 World Cup runners-up. The African side matched France’s intensity for long periods and threatened on several occasions, forcing the French defence into uncomfortable moments.
However, France’s superior quality in front of goal ultimately proved decisive.
Mbappé opened the scoring with a clinical finish before Senegal fought back to keep the contest alive. Yet the French forward, regarded as one of the world’s best players, produced another moment of brilliance to restore his side’s control of the match.
Bradley Barcola added a third goal to seal victory and put France firmly in command of Group I after the opening round of matches.
The result gives Les Bleus an early advantage in a group that also features Norway and Iraq, while Senegal will be left to rue missed opportunities despite an encouraging display.
For Mbappé, the evening was about more than three points. His brace elevated him above Giroud as France’s most prolific scorer, further cementing his legacy as one of the nation’s greatest footballers.
Speaking after the match, French players hailed the achievement but stressed that the team’s focus remains on lifting the World Cup trophy.
The victory extends France’s reputation as one of the tournament favourites, with their blend of experience and attacking firepower once again on display. For Senegal, however, there were positives to take from a performance that demonstrated the growing competitiveness of African football on the world stage.
France next face Iraq in their second Group I match, while Senegal will seek to revive their qualification hopes against Norway.
