Mbappé makes historyas France master Senegal

France launched their World Cup with a commanding win — and with a piece of history. Long rattled by an enterprising Senegal, Les Bleus eventually took control after the break to win 3-1, carried by a brace from Kylian Mbappé. In the process, the captain became the all-time leading scorer for the France national team. In the "group of death", Didier Deschamps and his side immediately laid down a marker.

Rattled, then imperial

The first half, though, belonged to the Lions of Teranga. High pressing, controlled possession, clear-cut chances: Senegal had France doubting for a long while. Nicolas Jackson even struck the post (25^e), while Mbappé and Dembélé were kept quiet. For France, only Michael Olise and Désiré Doué looked dangerous, without converting, and Édouard Mendy stood firm.

Everything changed in the second half. In the 66th^e, from a slick one-two, Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring with an unstoppable low strike. Then, in the 82nd^e, Adrien Rabiot sent Bradley Barcolathrough, and his dink found the target (2-0). Senegal did pull one back through a superb solo run fromIbrahim Mbaye (90^e+5), but Mbappé hit straight back (90^e+6) with a long-range strike under the bar, leaving Mendy stunned. 3-1.

The "group of death"

The draw had branded it the "group of death": France, Senegal, Norway and Iraq, officially the toughest group of the tournament according to Opta's rankings. On one side France, two-time world champions and favourites, led by Mbappé, Dembélé and their whole attacking armada. On the other Senegal, reigning African champions and seasoned at World Cup battles, with Sadio Mané, Ismaïla Sarr and Édouard Mendy. A blockbuster clash to get things underway.

The seal of French class

While the scoreline may look emphatic, it flatters France a little given a tricky first half. But the numbers are ultimately damning: 8 shots on target to 2, an xG of 1.89 against 0.50, and above all a cutting edge rediscovered after the break. For Senegal, the showing is not so bad — but the bill is steep. For France, and for Mbappé, it is the best of starts.

France launch their campaign in ideal fashion

With this win, France provisionally top Group I, pending the result of the other match, between Erling Haaland's Norway and Iraq, being played in Boston. The 2nd^e matchday, on 22 June, will pit France against Iraq and Senegal against Norway — two already significant fixtures in this ultra-competitive group.

France struck hard on their debut, and already have their go-to man. The road is still long — but when Mbappé writes history on the very first night, Les Bleus can dream big.