France secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Senegal in their World Cup Group I clash on Tuesday, with Kylian Mbappe scoring the decisive goal. The match, played at the Al Janoub Stadium, saw the defending champions take an early lead through Antoine Griezmann before Senegal equalized via a penalty from Sadio Mane. Mbappe's second-half strike proved to be the winner, as France dominated possession but were tested by a resilient Senegalese side.
First Half: France Dominate Early
France started brightly, controlling possession and creating several chances. It took just 12 minutes for them to break the deadlock, as Griezmann latched onto a through ball from Adrien Rabiot and slotted home past Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The goal settled French nerves, but Senegal grew into the game as the half progressed. Their pressure paid off in the 35th minute when Mane was brought down in the box by Raphael Varane, and the Senegalese captain stepped up to convert the penalty, sending Hugo Lloris the wrong way.
Second Half: Mbappe Decides
The second half was a more cautious affair, with both teams wary of conceding. France regained the lead in the 68th minute when Mbappe collected a pass from Ousmane Dembele on the left, cut inside, and fired a powerful shot that deflected off a defender and into the net. Senegal pushed for an equalizer but were unable to breach the French defense, which held firm to secure all three points.
Key Moments
- 12th minute: Griezmann opens the scoring for France.
- 35th minute: Mane equalizes from the penalty spot.
- 68th minute: Mbappe scores the winner with a deflected strike.
France now top Group I with six points from two matches, while Senegal remain on three points after their opening win. The result puts France in a strong position to advance to the knockout stages, while Senegal will need to bounce back in their final group game.
