Senegal produced a performance full of courage, quality and ambition, but were ultimately punished by the ruthless efficiency of France as the Lions of Teranga suffered a 3-1 defeat in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match in New York on Tuesday.
For long periods at the MetLife Stadium, Senegal looked every bit the equal of the 2022 World Cup finalists and at times appeared the more dangerous side.
However, football at the highest level is often decided by moments, and France made the most of theirs through the brilliance of captain Kylian Mbappe.
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.
Mbappe the star for France
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.
The Lions of Teranga should arguably have gone into the break ahead. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Ismaila Sarr found himself in a promising position but fired over the crossbar when the goal was at his mercy.
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 to keep the score level.
The experienced goalkeeper first denied Michael Olise before producing another excellent stop to frustrate Mbappe.
