France kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey in style, claiming a lively 3-1 victory over Senegal in a thrilling Group I showdown at MetLife Stadium.

Both teams burst out of the gates with high-octane first-half play, crafting chance after chance, yet the scoreboard remained untouched as the opening 45 minutes ended without a goal.

Les Bleus finally broke through in the 66th minute, as captain Kylian Mbappé pounced from close range to hand France a well-earned lead.

France doubled their lead in the 82nd minute when Bradley Barcola coolly slotted home, finishing off a slick assist from Adrien Rabiot.

Senegal sparked late drama as substitute Ibrahim Mbaye clawed one back for the Teranga Lions, briefly reviving hopes of a comeback.

But France swiftly dashed those hopes when Mbappé struck again just moments later, unleashing a spectacular long-range shot to restore the two-goal cushion and seal the victory.

This victory launches France’s World Cup campaign on the perfect note as they look ahead to their next Group I test against Iraq on June 22 at Lincoln Financial Field.

Senegal, meanwhile, will be eager to rebound when they take on Norway on June 23 at MetLife Stadium.