William Saliba

2022 FIFA World Cup runners-up France face Senegal in debut fixture.

France vs Senegal kicks off at 20:00 [GMT+1] on Tuesday, June 16, at the New Jersey Stadium. France will enter this fixture as one of the tournament favourites, with recent results providing very little doubt. Didier Deschamps' side have won five of their last six matches in all competitions and are currently unbeaten in seven consecutive games. Their consistency over a longer period is even more remarkable, with France avoiding defeat in 90 of their last 101 matches across all competitions. They face Senegal in Tuesday’s debut match, hoping to get off on a flying start as runners-up of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The Blues will be counting on their ability to keep sides out with an average of just 0.67 goals per match conceded in recent games. In World Cup matches, France have won 65% of their last 17 matches in the competition, averaging 1.76 goals scored and 1 goal conceded. They have remained unbeaten in 14 of those 17 World Cup fixtures. Additionally, France's ability to create chances against well-organised opponents gives them a slight advantage in what should be a tightly contested encounter. Mbappe is expected to spearhead the attacking 4—2—3—1 formation. An offensive trio composed of PSG teammates Dembele and Désiré Doué teaming up with Bayern’s Olise is expected behind Mbappe. Les Bleus may be without Arsenal’s William Saliba following a knock that saw him absent from training in recent days. The Lions of Teranga make a return to the grand stage after their 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign, where they qualified for the knockout stage before making an exit following a 3-0 defeat to England. Meanwhile, they arrive with a record that deserves enormous respect. The African side have been one of the most consistent international teams in recent years and have avoided defeat in 42 of their last 43 matches in all competitions. That extraordinary run demonstrates not only quality but also resilience under pressure. Defensively they have been exceptional, conceding an average of just 0.40 goals away from home. Recent results suggest Senegal are comfortable playing disciplined, controlled football. Their last three matches have all produced under 2.5 goals, reflecting a side that prioritises defensive organisation and patience. Against a powerful French attack, maintaining that structure will be crucial. However, while Senegal have the quality to frustrate France and remain competitive throughout, the depth of talent available to the French squad may ultimately prove decisive. A 4—3—3 formation with Nicolas Jackson, Sadio Mané and Ismaïla Sarr in attack is expected against France.