In a thrilling Group I match, the French national team triumphed over Senegal with a 3-1 victory, highlighted by a record-breaking performance from their captain, Kylian Mbappe.
Senegal initially outshone the French side in the first half, demonstrating superior play. However, the momentum shifted dramatically after halftime. France’s resurgence was sparked by substitute Bradley Barcola, who found the back of the net, setting the stage for Mbappe’s decisive contributions.
Mbappe, with his clinical finishing, etched his name into the history books by becoming France’s all-time leading goalscorer. In the 66th minute, he netted his 58th goal for the national team, surpassing Olivier Giroud’s previous record. This milestone came shortly after Ibrahim Mbaye managed a consolation goal for Senegal.
Adding to his accomplishments, Mbappe’s brace elevated his World Cup goal tally to 14, surpassing legends like Lionel Messi and Just Fontaine, and equalling Germany’s Gerd Muller. He now sits just two goals shy of Miroslav Klose’s record.
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“I play to leave a mark on my country’s history and to help my team win the World Cup,” Mbappe told reporters.
“I don’t think we’re fully up and running yet. But it’s always good to start a tournament with a win. It gives you a bit more peace of mind, even though you’re never really relaxed at a World Cup.”
Senegal had started with far greater intensity and gave France early problems through Nicolas Jackson and Ismaila Sarr, while Deschamps’ side struggled to find rhythm despite dominating possession.
Jackson almost opened the scoring after a lightning counter-attack down the left, driving into the box and firing a low shot against the post before the ball ricocheted off goalkeeper Mike Maignan’s heel and went out for a corner.
Iraq and Norway are playing Boston in Group I now.
— additional reporting from Reuters
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