TDDefending champions France opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in style on Tuesday, defeating Senegal 3-1 in a Group-stage clash as star forward Kylian Mbappé scored twice to lead Les Bleus to victory.
After a frustrating first half in which France struggled to break down Senegal’s disciplined defense, Mbappé came alive after the interval, helping his side secure all three points and extending his remarkable World Cup scoring record.
The match remained goalless until the 66th minute when Mbappé finally broke the deadlock.
The French captain raced past Senegal skipper Kalidou Koulibaly, collected a precise diagonal pass from Michael Olise, and calmly slotted the ball beyond goalkeeper Édouard Mendy from close range.
The goal marked Mbappé’s 13th World Cup strike and was accompanied by a unique celebration.
The French star mimicked playing a flute, fulfilling a promise he had made during a television segment with actor and presenter James Corden.
Mbappé had revealed that he learned to play the flute briefly as a child after encouragement from his parents.
France coach Didier Deschamps praised his talismanic forward after the match, joking that he would gladly accept another slow first half if it resulted in two goals after the break.
France doubled their advantage in the 82nd minute through substitute Bradley Barcola, who scored just two minutes after coming off the bench, putting the European giants firmly in control.
Senegal briefly threatened a comeback when Ibrahim Mbaye pulled one back in the fifth minute of stoppage time.
However, France’s response was immediate.
Just 68 seconds later, Mbappé produced the moment of the match.
The striker unleashed a stunning right-footed effort from approximately 30 yards that dipped perfectly over Mendy’s outstretched arm and beneath the crossbar, sealing the 3-1 victory in spectacular fashion.
The brace took Mbappé’s World Cup tally to 14 goals.
It moved him ahead of Brazilian legend Pelé on the tournament’s all-time scoring list and further cementing his status as one of football’s greatest World Cup performers.
The victory gives France an ideal start to their quest for another world title.
Meanwhile, Senegal will be left searching for answers after a spirited display ultimately fell short against the brilliance of Mbappé.
