New Jersey, Jun 17 (V7N) – France began its FIFA World Cup campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Senegal in a Group I clash, as Kylian Mbappe struck twice to lead the two-time world champions to all three points.
The French superstar reached another career milestone with his brace, surpassing Olivier Giroud as France’s all-time leading scorer. Mbappe also moved ahead of Lionel Messi in World Cup goals, taking his tally to 14 on football’s biggest stage.
Despite the final scoreline, Senegal looked the more threatening side in the opening half at New Jersey Stadium. Nicolas Jackson came close to breaking the deadlock in the 25th minute, but his effort rattled the post. The first half ended goalless after both sides failed to convert their chances.
France emerged a different team after the break, increasing the tempo and putting Senegal under sustained pressure. The breakthrough came in the 66th minute when Mbappe finished clinically from a Michael Olise assist to put Les Bleus ahead.
Senegal thought they had found an immediate equalizer, but the goal was disallowed for offside following a review.
Didier Deschamps' side doubled its advantage in the 82nd minute. Substitute Bradley Barcola, who had replaced Ousmane Dembele just three minutes earlier, made an instant impact by finding the back of the net.
Mbappe then sealed the victory in stoppage time with a stunning strike from outside the penalty area. Senegal managed a late consolation goal through Ibrahim, but it only reduced the margin of defeat.
The result gives France a winning start to its World Cup journey and places the European powerhouse in a strong position in Group I.
France will return to action against Iraq on June 22, with the match scheduled to kick off at 3:30 a.m. Bangladesh time.
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