Kylian Mbappé delivered a commanding performance, scoring twice as France opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Senegal in Group I.

The result hands France an ideal start in the group stage, while Senegal — one of Africa's brightest hopes at the tournament — suffered a painful opening defeat that leaves them with work to do in their remaining fixtures.

Mbappé was the standout figure, and his brace underlined why France remain among the tournament favourites heading into the competition. The French side controlled large portions of the match and ultimately had too much firepower for the Teranga Lions to contain.

Senegal, who arrive at the FIFA World Cup 2026 as one of CAF's most celebrated representatives, will need to regroup quickly. A defeat in the opening game of a World Cup group is far from fatal, but the margin of the loss will demand a strong response from their squad.

France's 3-1 win sets up what promises to be a compelling Group I, with both sides still capable of making a deep run in the tournament.