Kylian Mbappé delivered a landmark performance as France defeated Senegal 3-1 in their opening Group I match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, at MetLife Stadium, in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Mbappé scored twice in the second half, including a decisive late strike, as France avenged their famous 2002 World Cup opening defeat to Senegal. His brace also saw him become France’s all-time leading international goalscorer.
After a goalless first half, Mbappé opened the scoring in the 66th minute, finishing clinically from a precise assist by Michael Olise. Senegal briefly threatened a comeback when Ibrahim Mbaye pulled one back in stoppage time, but Mbappé responded almost immediately with a powerful long-range effort to seal the victory. Bradley Barcola added France’s second goal shortly after coming off the bench, finishing a sweeping move orchestrated by Adrien Rabiot. The result marks a strong start for France in Group I, which also includes Norway and Iraq, while Senegal will look to recover in their upcoming fixtures.
Mbappé’s historic double further cements his status as one of the defining figures of his generation, as France begin their World Cup campaign with momentum and renewed confidence.