The big day has arrived for the French national team. On Tuesday evening, Les Bleus begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against Senegal at MetLife Stadium in New York. It is already a crucial first test for Didier Deschamps’ side, who could take a major step toward qualification with a victory.
France vs Senegal kicks off tonight at 9 p.m., and the wait is finally over. For the expected lineup, Deschamps appears to have made his choice. The French manager is set to rely on an attacking setup featuring Désiré Doué, Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, and Kylian Mbappé together. The formula has already been tested in warm-up matches and seems to have convinced the French coaching staff.
France’s Attacking Weapons Ready
In midfield, Adrien Rabiot and Aurélien Tchouaméni are expected to provide balance and experience. At the back, Didier Deschamps should stick with his usual defensive quartet of Jules Koundé, Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba, and Theo Hernandez in front of goalkeeper Mike Maignan. Doué is expected to start ahead of Bradley Barcola. France’s probable lineup: Maignan – Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba, Hernandez – Tchouaméni, Rabiot – Olise, Dembélé, Doué – Mbappé (captain).
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On the other side, Senegal arrive with strong ambitions. Head coach Pape Thiaw is expected to rely on his experienced leaders in an attempt to upset the world runners-up. Edouard Mendy will start in goal, while Kalidou Koulibaly is set to feature despite his recent injury concerns. In midfield, Idrissa Gana Gueye should partner Lamine Camara and Pape Gueye, while the attacking trio of Ismaïla Sarr, Nicolas Jackson, and captain Sadio Mané will look to trouble the French defense.
On paper, France enter the match as favorites. However, caution remains essential against one of Africa’s strongest national teams. Senegal have selected their best soldiers for the challenge, and the Lions of Teranga are determined to make a statement from the very start of the tournament.
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