Senegal were punished by the ruthless efficiency of France as the Lions of Teranga suffered a 3-1 defeat in their opening 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I match in New York.
The opening stages were evenly contested, with both sides showing respect for each other’s attacking quality. France threatened first through Ousmane Dembele, whose effort was blocked by determined Senegalese defending.
But it was Senegal who produced the first real warning.
In the 25th minute, Nicolas Jackson unleashed a powerful strike that crashed against the post with French goalkeeper Mike Maignan beaten. The chance lifted the confidence of the African side, who continued to trouble France with their pace and direct attacking play.
France returned for the second half with greater urgency and gradually began to dominate possession. Yet Senegal remained disciplined and organised, with captain Edouard Mendy producing a series of outstanding saves.
However, the resistance was finally broken in the 66th minute.
Micheal Olise, who had become increasingly influential, threaded a superb pass behind the Senegal defence and striker Kylian Mbappe raced through, before calmly finishing past Mendy to give France the lead.
France doubled their advantage in the 82nd minute when substitute Bradley Barcola marked his introduction with a composed finish after being picked out by Adrien Rabiot.
Yet Senegal refused to surrender.In stoppage time, teenager Ibrahim Mbaye produced a moment of magic, rifling a superb strike beyond Maignan to reignite hopes of a dramatic comeback and reward Senegal for their persistence.
But any thoughts of a late rescue were extinguished almost immediately.
Mbappe responded within a minute, unleashing a powerful long-range strike that flew past Mendy to seal both the victory and his second goal of the night.
The result was harsh on a Senegal side that created several clear opportunities and left the pitch knowing they had pushed one of the tournament favourites all the way.
The Lions of Teranga may leave New York empty-handed, if they can maintain the level of performance in their remaining matches against Norway and Iraq, Senegal will still have every reason to believe their World Cup journey is far from over.
Latest World Cup results
Belgium 1-1 Egypt
Spain 0-0 Cape Verde
Saudi Arabia 1-1 Uruguay
Iran 2-2 New Zealand
France 3-1 Senegal.
