France vs. Senegal player ratings: Kylian Mbappe returns again! The captain makes history for France in a Michael Olis-inspired turnaround at the World Cup
They worked hard to make it happen, but in-form France got off to a winning start to their World Cup campaign as they eventually beat Senegal 3-1 in Group I. After a poor first-half display, France turned around, with Kylian Mbappe – who was particularly poor – scoring a brace in each of Bradley Barkola’s impressive goals to become his country’s all-time top scorer.
An unforgettable first period that included two great chances for the underdogs. MbappĂ©, of all players, gave the ball away in the 25th minute and a quick Senegal attack ended with Nicholas Jackson’s shot hitting the post and ricocheting wide. Then, in stoppage time, Ismaila Sarr somehow smashed a shot over the bar from just eight yards out.
France came alive late after the break, going close to scoring through Desiree Du, Michael Olise and Mbappe in quick succession, with Edouard Mendy finally called upon against Senegal. France thought they had a chance to take the lead when Sadio Mane appeared to clear Mbappe inside the box shortly before the hour mark, but the referee strangely stood by his decision not to award a penalty despite a VAR review and a consultation with the pitch-side monitor.
However, the France captain did not have to wait long for justice, as he latched on to Olise’s precise pass from the outside and slotted the ball into the bottom corner from the first time from the corner. The Teranga Lions thought they had hit back immediately, but Jackson’s powerful goal was ruled out for offside.
The much-improved French side put the game to bed eight minutes from time when substitute Barcola deceived Mendy after a brilliant through ball from Adrien Rabiot. There was still time for Ibrahim Mbaye to score a brilliant goal of honor for Senegal, and for Mbappe to respond immediately with a shot that flew home from 30 yards, although Mendy should have done better.
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