France have finally gotten revenge for their loss in the opening game of the 2002 World Cup as they beat Senegal 3-1.

France began their 2026 World Cup campaign on a high note as they ran out 3-1 winners over Senegal in their opening group game.

France start off strong! 💪#FIFAWorldCup

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 16, 2026

Senegal were dogged defensively and made it pretty difficult for Les Blues to play through. For most of the first half, France dominated possession but couldn’t hurt Senegal.

However, the Senegalese had the best chance of the half when Nicolas Jackson saw his shot cannon off the bar and onto Maignan’s foot, only to miss the post by little.

The game however opened up in the second half with Olise’s shot saved from close range by Mendy after a loose ball into the midfield.

Olise then played Mbappe through on goal in another sequence of play, only for the Real Madrid man to miss.

Mbappe would then make up for his earlier miss after finishing off a sublime pass from Olise.

France then doubled their lead as substitute Barcola finished off a fine pass from Rabiot.

Senegal found a response immediately with Jackson sending a rocket past Maignan, but his goal was ruled out for offside. The Teranga Lions eventually pulled one back through Mbaye who dropped Hernandez and saw Maignan make a mess of his shot.

Before the Senegalese fans could celebrate their goal, Mbappe scored again. His shot from outside the box beat Mendy to make it 3-1 and give France a dominant victory.

It’s what he does. #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/p7YzvFnTfj

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 16, 2026

France have now avenged the class of 2002 who were shocked by an inspired Senegal side in the famous 1-0 loss. Mbappe also became France’s all-time leading goalscorer (58), surpassing Giroud who previously held the record (57).