France beat Senegal 3-1 in the group stage, Group I.

The match took place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, as part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage, Group I. Both sides entered the game looking to secure early points in the tournament, and the atmosphere was electric under the stadium lights.

How it unfolded

The dead-lock was broken in the 66th minute when Kylian Mbappé received a precise through ball from Michael Olise. Mbappé took a right-footed shot from the centre of the box and placed it in the centre of the net, giving France a deserved lead. The French side built on that momentum, and in the 82nd minute Bradley Barcola struck again. After a swift counter-attack, Adrien Rabiot delivered a through ball that found Barcola on the right side of the box; his right-footed effort curled into the bottom right corner, extending France’s advantage to 2-0.

Senegal responded in injury time, and the 90+5 minute saw Ibrahim Mbaye reduce the deficit. A fast-break pass from Iliman Ndiaye found Mbaye on the right side of the box, and his right-footed shot flew into the top right corner, making it 2-1 and reviving Senegal’s hopes. However, the drama was not over. Just a minute later, in the 90+6 minute, Kylian Mbappé completed his brace. Collecting the ball outside the box, he unleashed a powerful right-footed strike that dipped into the top left corner, sealing a 3-1 victory for France as the final whistle blew.

Standout performers

  • Kylian Mbappé – decisive influence with two goals, including the opener and the late winner, and an assist for the first goal.
  • Michael Olise – provided the key pass that unlocked Senegal’s defence for Mbappé’s opening strike.
  • Bradley Barcola – added the second French goal with a well-timed run and finish.
  • Adrien Rabiot – supplied the through ball that set up Barcola’s tally.
  • Ibrahim Mbaye – scored Senegal’s consolation goal, keeping the match competitive until the end.
  • Iliman Ndiaye – delivered the assist that led to Mbaye’s late goal.

Match facts

  • Final score: France 3-1 Senegal
  • Scorers:
    • Kylian Mbappé (France) – 66’, 90+6’
    • Bradley Barcola (France) – 82’
    • Ibrahim Mbaye (Senegal) – 90+5’
  • Assists: Michael Olise (66’); Adrien Rabiot (82’); Iliman Ndiaye (90+5’)
  • Bookings: none
  • Venue: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey

What it means

The result leaves both France and Senegal with a win each as they continue their campaigns in Group I of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Each side will look to build on the points earned here in their remaining group fixtures.