Kylian Mbappe scored a historic brace to become France’s all-time leading goalscorer as Les Bleus secured a thrilling 3-1 victory over Senegal. The FIFA World Cup 2026™ Group I opener took place on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford. The French captain’s milestone performance ensured his side avoided a repeat of their famous 2002 opening-match upset against the West African nation. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Senegal Threaten Early Before French Response [1]

Senegal started the encounter brightly and came agonizingly close to breaking the deadlock in the first half. Striker Nicolas Jackson saw a goalbound effort beat French goalkeeper Mike Maignan, only to hit the post and deflect away. Jackson later had a goal disallowed for offside, while Ismaila Sarr uncharacteristically blasted a clear chance over the crossbar. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

France found their rhythm after the halftime interval. Desire Doue issued a warning shot before Michael Olise and Mbappe forced a pair of spectacular saves from Senegal’s goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy. [1, 2, 3]

Record-Breaking Moments and Late Drama

The deadlock was finally broken in the 66th minute. Olise delivered a clever pass to Mbappe, who fired past Mendy to equal Olivier Giroud’s national record of 57 goals. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

The final minutes of the match produced late drama from both sides:

• 82nd Minute: French substitute Bradley Barcola scored to double the lead.
• 95th Minute: Ibrahim Mbaye scored an impressive late goal for Senegal to make it 2-1.
• 96th Minute: Mbappe sealed the victory with a superb long-range strike from outside the box. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

The final goal marked Mbappe’s 58th international strike, placing him alone as France’s outright all-time top scorer. It also raised his total World Cup finals tally to 14 goals, putting him just two behind Miroslav Klose’s historic record of 16. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Group I Standings After Matchday 1