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France prepares for World Cup opener against Senegal with predicted XI

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 6:30 AM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

France prepares for World Cup opener against Senegal with predicted XI

Summary

France is set to face Senegal in their FIFA World Cup opener on Tuesday night. Key decisions include the starting position on the left wing, where reports suggest Désiré Doué will start over Marcus Thuram, despite recent struggles. Ousmane Dembélé is expected to take on a No.10 role, while William Saliba's participation is a focal point due to a back injury; he is anticipated to play. The match marks an important beginning for both teams in the tournament.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•France faces Senegal in their World Cup opener on June 16.
•Désiré Doué is likely to start on the left wing.
•William Saliba is expected to play despite a back injury.
•Ousmane Dembélé to assume the No.10 role.

Latest Updates

6:30 AMYahoo Sports — France predicted XI v Senegal: Désiré Doué and William Saliba to start

What they're saying

"
There are two big questions for France going into their FIFA World Cup opener against Senegal on Tuesday night.The first pertains to who will start on the left wing. Marcus Thuram started there agains...
— Yahoo Sports

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