France begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against Senegal as strong favourites, led by Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise. While Les Bleus chase history with a third straight World Cup final appearance, Senegal will look to revive memories of their famous 2002 upset over France and start their tournament with a shock result.

New Jersey: Two-time champions France will face a challenge in their Group I opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.  

France, the 2022 finalists, boasts one of the most formidable attacking line-ups. Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe leads the charge, alongside PSG’s Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele and Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Olise. 

Didier Deschamps ' side will look to dominate possession and control the tempo in the afternoon game on Tuesday here (Wednesday 12.30 IST kick off). The heat can be a factor, and the team that adapts will dictate terms. Deschamps has won the World Cup title twice as a player and coach for France. 

Les Bleus are ranked third in the FIFA World Rankings and enter as clear favourites, and are one of the title contenders. But the 16th-ranked Senegal will try to replicate 2002 World Cup success, where they, as debutants, stunned the defending champions, France, 1-0.