Kylian Mbappe #10 of France celebrates after a 3-1 victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match between France and Senegal at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 16, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
France kicked off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a convincing 3-1 win over Senegal.
Kylian Mbappé scored twice to give his side a good start to the tournament, and they will be hoping to build on this and go further this time.
France looked sluggish in the first half and struggled to match Senegal’s pace in transition. However, they regained control in the second half and completely outplayed their opposition.
France won the World Cup in 2018 and finished second in 2022. Didier Deschamps has a lot to be positive about after what he saw in his team tonight, and he will be hoping they can go all the way.
Here at CaughtOffsidewe take a look at how the French players performed in the difficult game against Senegal.
VICTOIREEEEE!! 💙🔥
Nos Bleus s’imposing pour leur entrée dans la Coupe du Monde 🙌
🇫🇷3-1🇸🇳 #FRASEN | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/AkdgvaQ3Ku
— Equipe de France ⭐⭐ (@equipedefrance) June 16, 2026
Mike Maignan – 6/10
The goalkeeper had little to do for large parts of the tournament, but he should have done much better with Senegal’s late goal. His distribution was organized, and he looked organized every time he was called to action.
Jules Koundé – 6.5/10
Koundé powered down the right flank and was generally reliable defensively. He had a difficult time against Senegal but recovered and helped France maintain their form in a difficult first half.
Dayot Upamecano – 7/10
The Bayern Munich defender looked solid throughout. He looked dominant in aerial situations but was sometimes exposed when Senegal attacked with speed. It improved significantly after the break as France gained control.
William Saliba – 6.5/10
Saliba’s restraint on the ball helped France to play back under pressure. Although Senegal’s attackers caused problems at times, the Arsenal defender remained calm and presented a solid performance when he was not performing well.
Theo Hernández – 6.5/10
One of France’s most prolific defenders, Hernández was always looking to push forward and stretch Senegal’s backline. Defensively, he was tested at times but had a good hand in possession.
Aurélien Tchouaméni – 7/10
France struggled to gain control early on, but Tchouaméni grew into the game. His ability to win balls and set up goals became more important as Senegal began to tire, allowing France to dictate the tempo.
Adrien Rabiot – 6.5/10
Rabiot worked hard in midfield and helped France regain control after a difficult opening period. Although he was not particularly influential in the final third, his experience and physical presence proved useful. It also set up Bradley Barcola’s second goal of the game.
Michael Olise – 8.5/10
The creative heartbeat of the French invasion. Olise’s vision and passing repeatedly opened up Senegal’s defence, and his assist on Kylian Mbappé’s opener was a moment of real quality. Whenever France threatened, he was often involved.
Ousmane Dembélé – 7/10
Dembélé remained a constant threat with his pace and direct running. His final ball was inconsistent at times, but he stretched Senegal’s defense and created space for his teammates throughout the game.
Desire Doue – 6/10
He worked hard and helped France maintain the attacking pressure. However, that last quality was lacking and he did not threaten Senegal with his goalscoring ability.
Kylian Mbappé – 9/10
Kylian Mbappé has 14 goals in World Cup matches.
Only Miroslav Klose (16) and Ronaldo (15) have scored more goals in the history of this tournament. pic.twitter.com/fJQP4EX5wj
— Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) June 16, 2026
A difference maker. Mbappé was quiet during the match but once again showed why he is one of the best players in the world. Two clinical goals settled the contest and ensured that France start their World Cup campaign on a high note.
What you are holding
Bradley Barcola – 8/10
Barcola CLUTCH 🇫🇷💥 pic.twitter.com/JMpx4GjEAd
— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) June 16, 2026
Barcola brought energy, urgency and cutting edge to France’s attack. His goal ended Senegal’s hopes of a comeback and capped a great game. This young player has made a big impact when it comes to football.
Ryan Cherki – 6.5/10
Added new legs in midfield and helped France see the game more easily. He looked happy after his introduction, but didn’t have enough time to make a big impact on the tournament.
