France open your own 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in group I against Senegal in a high-profile clash pitting one of the tournament’s favorites against the African champions.
Didier Deschamps’ side arrive at the tournament after a heartbreaking defeat in the previous World Cup final, where they lost to Argentina on penalties in one of the most dramatic finals in recent memory.
Senegal, meanwhile, were knocked out of the 2022 tournament by England after a 3-0 defeat in the knockout stages.
France are tipped to go deep once again, while Senegal are seen as one of the African sides capable of causing an upset in the competition group.
France relies on Mbappé and an attack led by Olise
The French squad has considerable depth, with Bayern Munich duo Michael Olise and Dayot Upamecano now central figures in Deschamps’ system.
Olise in particular has grown into a key creative force, adding balance and flair to an already potent attacking unit.
Along with him, France has several players from the Bundesliga who have stepped into major roles on the international stage.
Kylian Mbappé is expected to lead the attack, supported by Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué, giving France a dynamic frontline capable of breaking down compact defences.
Stability in the midfield will be provided by Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adrien Rabiot, while the defensive unit is made up of William Saliba and Upamecano, who provide physicality and strength in the air.
Senegal counts on experience and youth
Senegal enter the match with a mix of established internationals and young talent.
The squad includes familiar names such as Sadio Mané, Nicolas Jackson, Moussa Niakhaté and Ismaïla Sarr, who are expected to play key roles in their attacking approach.
There is also the surprise inclusion of Bara Sapoko Ndiaye, an 18-year-old Bundesliga-linked prospect who has not played for the national team before but could make his debut from the bench.
Confirmed lineups
France (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Koundé, Saliba, Upamecano, T. Hernández; Tchouaméni, Rabiot; Olise, Dembélé, Doué; Mbappé.
Senegal (4-3-3): Mendy; Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhate, Diouf; Camara, Diarra, P. Gueye; Sarr, Jackson, Mané.
