France opened the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 3-1 victory over Senegal at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 16, 2026, kicking off the tournament at 3 p.m. local time (19:00 GMT) [1, 2, 3, 4]. Kylian Mbappe scored twice for France, including his record-breaking 58th international goal for the country [1, 2, 4]. Bradley Barcola added France's second goal, while Senegal's Ibrahim Mbaye scored a late consolation goal [1, 2, 4].
Senegal showed strength in the first half but France dominated after the break, securing control and the win in the second half [1, 2]. Senegalese supporters faced significant visa challenges that prevented many from attending the match in the U.S., as the government has suspended or restricted travel visas for 39 countries, including Senegal [5, 6]. Numerous Senegalese diaspora fans filled the stadium to support the team in place of those unable to attend [5, 6].
"I'm in the bloodiest of the nosebleeds but I hope they can hear me down there on the pitch," said fan Jessica Ambres, describing the experience of watching the game from the upper stands [5]. Others voiced frustration about visa issues, with Mahmoud Toure noting a friend in Senegal won a ticket in a FIFA lottery but could not attend due to visa denial [5]. FIFA President Gianni Infantino said in May 2025 that "The world is welcome in America... definitely also all the fans," but the restrictions have affected attendance for some teams' supporters [5].
Senegal enter the tournament under added pressure after controversially being stripped of their Africa Cup of Nations title earlier this year, which was awarded to Morocco [5, 6]. Meanwhile, France coach Didier Deschamps seeks to conclude his 14-year tenure with a third World Cup title [3].
France will next face their Group F matches on June 21, aiming to build on their winning start.
