France vs Senegal: Les Bleus Begin World Cup Quest Against Familiar African Rivals

France will begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against Senegal as Didier Deschamps looks to guide Les Bleus to global glory one final time before stepping down as head coach at the end of the tournament.

Having already secured his place among football's greatest managers, Deschamps remains the only living person to have won the World Cup both as a player and as a manager. The French legend is set to hand over the reins to Zinedine Zidane after the tournament, and he will be determined to finish his remarkable tenure with another world title.

France enter the competition among the favourites after an impressive qualification campaign in which they dropped just two points and comfortably secured their place at a major tournament for the eighth consecutive time. The 2018 world champions have also developed a reputation for thriving on football's biggest stage, reaching four of the last seven World Cup finals.

Despite a surprise 2-1 defeat to Ivory Coast in a recent friendly, Les Bleus responded positively by defeating Northern Ireland 3-1. Their attacking form remains particularly encouraging, with France scoring at least two goals in nine of their last ten matches across all competitions.

Standing in their way are a Senegal side eager to create another famous World Cup moment against the French. The Lions of Teranga arrive at their third successive World Cup after navigating qualification unbeaten and remain one of Africa's strongest international teams.

Senegal's rise over the past decade has been highlighted by their Africa Cup of Nations triumph and consistent performances on the world stage. Head coach Pape Thiaw will be hoping history can inspire his players, having been part of the Senegal squad that shocked defending champions France with a famous 1-0 victory in the opening match of the 2002 World Cup.

Recent results have been mixed for the African side. Victories over Peru and Gambia showcased their quality, but a 3-2 defeat to the United States and a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia exposed areas that still require improvement. Nevertheless, Senegal have remained defensively solid, keeping five clean sheets in their last seven matches.

France will be boosted by the availability of key defender William Saliba, who has recovered from a back issue and returned to full training. Jules Kounde is also expected to feature despite a recent muscle strain, while goalkeeper Mike Maignan remains fit after missing training for precautionary reasons.

As always, much of France's hopes will rest on the shoulders of Kylian Mbappe. The superstar forward enters the tournament with 56 international goals and is just one strike away from equalling Olivier Giroud's all-time men's scoring record for France.

Senegal, meanwhile, will look to captain Sadio Mane for inspiration. The veteran forward missed the 2022 World Cup through injury but is fully fit and ready to lead his country's attack. Nicolas Jackson is expected to spearhead the frontline, while midfield veteran Idrissa Gueye should also be available despite recent fitness concerns.

With world-class talent throughout the squad and a wealth of tournament experience, France start as favourites. However, Senegal possess enough quality and athleticism to make life difficult, ensuring an entertaining contest as both nations look to make a strong start in Group F.

Prediction: France 2-1 Senegal