France prepares for World Cup opener against Senegal, wary of complacency

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 9:15 PM

Last updated Jun 15, 2026

France prepares for World Cup opener against Senegal, wary of complacency
Summary

France is set to face Senegal in their opening match of the World Cup on Tuesday at MetLife Stadium. Coach Didier Deschamps has emphasized the importance of approaching the game without over-confidence, recalling their shock 1-0 loss to Senegal in 2002. He acknowledged the emotional challenges players might face in the high-stakes environment. France, considered one of the favorites, seeks to build on their recent warm-up match, a 3-1 victory over Northern Ireland, despite a prior 2-1 defeat against Ivory Coast. As a strong team with notable players like Kylian Mbappe and emerging talents, the team aims for a successful start in their quest for the trophy.

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By the Numbers
  • France faces Senegal in their World Cup opener on June 16.
  • Deschamps cautions against over-confidence, referencing past failures.
  • France arrives after a 3-1 win against Northern Ireland.
  • Kylian Mbappe looks to add to his World Cup goal tally.
  • France will also compete against Iraq and Norway in Group I.
Latest Updates
  • 9:15 PMYahoo SportsFearsome France begin World Cup wary of over-confidence
What they're saying
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France come into this year's World Cup as one of the leading contenders for the trophy having reached the final of the last two editions, but Tuesday's opponents in their opening game, Senegal, serve as a warning of the dangers of over-confidence.France have reached the final in four of the last seven World Cups, winning two and also losing two more on penalties.

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