Image source: Alamy Stock Photo
2026 World Cup
Group I
France vs Senegal
MetLife Stadium,
East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA
Tuesday, 16 June 2026
21:00
France and Senegal kick off their 2026 World Cup campaigns in a highly anticipated Group I clash on June 16 — a rematch of the iconic 2002 World Cup opener.
Head-to-head
The two nations have met three times across all competitions. Senegal hold the historical edge with two wins to France’s one, with no draws.
Their most famous encounter was the stunning 1-0 Senegal victory over France in the 2002 World Cup group stage.
Team News
France will be without striker Hugo Ekitike (Achilles tendon injury), but William Saliba recovered from a minor back issue and is available.
Senegal, on the other hand, has captain Sadio Mané (who missed the 2022 tournament due to injury) leading the line. Kalidou Koulibaly has been managing a minor leg issue but is expected to start.
Key Players
Kylian Mbappé, France’s captain and talisman, has blistering pace, clinical finishing and leadership, making him the ultimate match-winner who can decide big games in an instant.
Sadio Mané, on the other hand, remains Senegal’s main attacking threat. The Al-Nassr star’s experience, work rate and ability to create magic can trouble any defence when he is on song.
Quotes
“We have three opponents in the group. Why focus only on France? Norway and Iraq are there too,” Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw said.
“We have a historical connection with France, but we must respect every team. We have our strengths and we go into this match with hope and ambition. We are ready to write our own story.”
2026 World Cup – Group I Full Fixtures
21:00 — Tuesday, 16 June 2026
France vs Senegal
03:00 — Wednesday, 17 June 2026
Iraq vs Norway
00:00 — Wednesday, 23 June 2026
Norway vs Senegal
23:00 — Monday, 22 June 2026
France vs Iraq
21:00 — Friday, 26 June 2026
Norway vs France
21:00 — Friday, 26 June 2026
Senegal vs Iraq
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