World Cup · Jun 16, 2026 · 19:00 · MetLife Stadium
Final score: France 3–1 Senegal
Expert tip
goals: over · Rinalds
Match preview
The 2026 World Cup kicks off for France and Senegal on June 16th, a highly anticipated Group Stage encounter. With both teams entering the tournament with a clean slate, this opening fixture at the pinnacle of international football promises to set the tone for their campaigns. France, perennial contenders, will be looking to assert their dominance early, showcasing the blend of world-class talent and tactical prowess expected from a former champion. Their squad depth and experience in high-stakes matches will be key.
Senegal, meanwhile, arrive as formidable challengers, known for their athleticism, tactical discipline, and a core of players excelling in top European leagues. They will aim to disrupt France's rhythm and leverage their individual brilliance, particularly in transitions, to snatch a crucial early advantage. The midfield battle and the ability of each side's defence to contain the opposition's star forwards will be critical. Given the evenly balanced win probabilities, a tight, tactical affair is expected, with moments of individual brilliance likely to decide the outcome. Fans should watch for dynamic attacking plays and robust defensive stands from both sides.
16. M. Maignan, 5. J. Kounde, 4. D. Upamecano, 17. W. Saliba, 19. T. Hernandez, 8. A. Tchouameni, 14. A. Rabiot, 11. M. Olise, 7. O. Dembele, 20. D. Doue, 10. K. Mbappe
16. E. Mendy, 15. K. Diatta, 2. M. Sarr, 19. M. Niakhate, 25. M. Diouf, 6. P. Ciss, 8. L. Camara, 13. I. Ndiaye, 21. H. Diarra, 10. S. Mane, 12. C. Ndiaye
Match events
66' Goal Normal Goal — K. Mbappe (France) (assists: M. Olise)
75' subst Substitution 1 — I. Sarr (Senegal) (assists: I. Mbaye)
76' subst Substitution 2 — L. Camara (Senegal) (assists: H. Diarra)
80' subst Substitution 1 — O. Dembele (France) (assists: B. Barcola)
82' Goal Normal Goal — B. Barcola (France) (assists: A. Rabiot)
83' subst Substitution 3 — P. Gueye (Senegal) (assists: I. Ndiaye)
83' subst Substitution 4 — N. Jackson (Senegal) (assists: B. Dieng)
87' subst Substitution 2 — D. Doue (France) (assists: R. Cherki)
88' subst Substitution 5 — I. Gueye (Senegal) (assists: P. Ciss)
90'+5 Goal Normal Goal — I. Mbaye (Senegal) (assists: I. Ndiaye)
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