France entered the Group I clash in New Jersey with a clear intent to dominate, but Senegal’s early aggression forced the visitors into a cautious start, testing their defense with quick bursts from Nicolas Jackson and Ismaila Sarr.
Mbappé Breaks the Stalemate
The deadlock was finally shattered in the 66th minute when Mbappé received a quick pass inside the box, turned elegantly and slotted the ball past the Senegalese keeper to put France ahead.
Ten minutes later, substitute Bradley Barcola added his name to the scoresheet, finishing a swift counter‑attack that extended the lead to 2‑0 and shifted momentum firmly in France’s favor.
Senegal’s hopes were briefly revived in the 95th minute when Ibrahim Mbaye tapped in a loose ball, but the goal could not alter the course of the match.
Mbappé’s second strike came in the dying moments, a curling effort from outside the area that curled into the net, sealing a 3‑1 victory and moving the French forward to 58 career World Cup goals, level with Gerd Müller on the all‑time list.
After the final whistle, Mbappé spoke of his desire to leave a lasting mark on his country’s history and to help his team lift the trophy, a ambition that has defined his career from the streets of Bondy to the world stage.