World Cup: Olise and Barcola impress as Mbappé's two goals propel France to a 3-1 victory over Senegal in an electrifying match.

Kylian Mbappé's double strike propelled the France national football team to a thrilling 3-1 win over the Senegal national football team in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I opener at the New York/New Jersey Stadium on Tuesday.

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The match was a highly anticipated clash, evoking memories of Senegal's historic 1-0 victory over France in the 2002 tournament, but this time France was determined to avoid a repeat of that outcome.

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Following a cautious first half, Mbappé finally breached Senegal's defenses after the restart, giving France control of the game and setting the stage for a potential rout.

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Midfielders Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola injected creativity and urgency into France's attack, stretching Senegal's defensive line as they pushed for a second goal.

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The game took a dramatic turn in stoppage time, as Ibrahim Mbaye scored in the 90+5th minute, assisted by substitute Iliman Ndiaye, to pull one back for Senegal and briefly set up a tense finish.

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However, France responded swiftly and ruthlessly, with Mbappé scoring his second goal just a minute later to complete his brace and extinguish Senegal's momentum.

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Mbappé's goals brought his international tally to 57, matching the record held by his senior compatriot Olivier Giroud, as he etched his name in the history books.

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The victory gives France an early lead in Group I and a solid foundation ahead of their next match against the Iraq national football team, with a quick turnaround scheduled according to FIFA's schedule.

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Meanwhile, Senegal will regroup and prepare for their next Group I encounter against the Norway national football team, with their qualification hopes still alive but under increased pressure.