France kicked off its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 3-1 victory over Senegal in its opening group-stage match. Kylian Mbappé scored multiple goals in the win, pushing Les Bleus to the top of their group and reinforcing the team's status as a tournament contender in the expanded 48-team field.
The result came as several other pre-tournament favorites produced uneven performances. Spain, winner of the 2024 UEFA European Championship, was held to a 0-0 draw by Cape Verde in its first match, a result that has tempered expectations for the Spanish side. England opened with a 4-2 win over Croatia, showcasing its own attacking strength.
France's early form has drawn attention, particularly the contribution of Mbappé, who has been central to the team's attack. The victory over Senegal, a disciplined African side playing in its third World Cup, was France's most complete performance of the tournament so far.
The next test for France will come in its remaining group-stage fixtures, where a strong showing could secure a more favorable path in the knockout rounds. With the tournament expanding to 48 teams, the round of 16 will feature a new format, and seeding from group play will be critical.
