France beats Senegal 3-1 in World Cup Group E opener

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — France opened its 2026 World Cup campaign with a 3-1 victory over Senegal in a Group E match at MetLife Stadium. Kylian Mbappé scored twice, in the 66th and 96th minutes, while Bradley Barcola added a third goal in the 82nd minute. Senegal's lone response came in stoppage time through Ibrahim Mbaye in the 95th minute. The first half ended without goals after Senegal struck the post in the 25th minute, missing an early chance to take the lead. France broke through after the break and controlled the second half to secure the three points. France and Senegal are joined in Group E by Iraq and Norway, whose opening match is scheduled for Wednesday at 1:00 a.m. Baghdad time.