Mbappé double sees France past stubborn Senegal in World Cup opener

Kylian Mbappé scored twice and Bradley Barcola added a third as France beat the African champions Senegal 3-1 to open their 2026 World Cup campaign, despite a late Ibrahim Mbaye consolation.

Kylian Mbappé delivered when it mattered, scoring twice as France saw off a spirited Senegal 3-1 to begin their World Cup campaign with a hard-earned win over the African champions.

For an hour this was a genuine contest. Senegal, organised and dangerous on the break, frustrated Les Bleus and matched them for long spells. But France have a habit of finding a way, and on 66 minutes Kylian Mbappé broke the deadlock to settle his side's nerves.

The captain's goal opened the floodgates. Bradley Barcola, a constant threat down the left, made it 2-0 on 82 minutes, and France looked to be cruising. Senegal, though, refused to go quietly.

Deep into stoppage time Ibrahim Mbaye pulled one back to give the Lions of Teranga hope at 2-1, only for Mbappé to have the final word seconds later, racing clear to complete his brace and restore France's two-goal cushion at 3-1.

It was a statement of intent from one of the tournament favourites, though Senegal will take heart from the manner in which they competed. For African fans watching in Kenya, there was pride in the fight, and frustration that, once again, world-class quality made the difference at the decisive moments.