France – Senegal: Likely Lineups for the Blues’ Opening Clash at the 2026 World Cup
The big day has finally arrived for the French team. Didier Deschamps’ men kick off their 2026 World Cup campaign this Tuesday night in East Rutherford, New Jersey, with a highly anticipated match against Senegal. Scheduled for 9 PM, this encounter is one of the most exciting fixtures in the group stage. The Blues, the reigning world runners-up, aim to start the tournament on the right foot.
Just hours before kickoff, Didier Deschamps can breathe easy. The French coach should have his entire squad available for this match. Despite some physical concerns during preparation, there are no major injuries to report. The team’s key players are present and ready to tackle this first challenge against a Senegalese side known for its strength and physicality.
On the offensive front, all eyes will be on Kylian Mbappé. The captain of the Blues will once again be the main weapon in France’s attack. To support him, Didier Deschamps is likely to rely on a trio made up of Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, and Désiré Doué. This attacking line, quick, technical, and creative, will aim to break through the Senegalese defense. Behind them, Adrien Rabiot and Aurélien Tchouaméni should provide balance in midfield.
In defense, France will lean on an experienced backline. William Saliba, who felt some discomfort in his back during the final days of preparation, seems fit to start. He is expected to partner with Dayot Upamecano in central defense. Jules Koundé and Theo Hernandez should occupy the flanks, while Mike Maignan will guard the French goal for this first World Cup outing.
On the Senegal side, optimism is also in the air. The Lions of Teranga have welcomed back two key players. Kalidou Koulibaly and Idrissa Gana Gueye, who raised some concerns due to physical issues, have returned to full training and are now contenders for starting spots. Their return is great news for coach Pape Thiaw as this crucial match approaches.
🚨 THE LIKELY LINEUPS FOR THIS FRANCE 🇫🇷 – 🇸🇳 SENEGAL MATCH TONIGHT! 🍿
🗞️ @lequipe pic.twitter.com/H2nUOiGOHS
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) June 16, 2026
However, a surprise could emerge in Senegal’s defense. Despite Koulibaly’s return, Mamadou Sarr is in a strong position to start alongside Moussa Niakhaté. In midfield, Idrissa Gana Gueye is expected to reclaim his leadership role, supported by Lamine Camara and Pape Gueye. In attack, Senegal will rely on the speed of Ismaïla Sarr, the power of Nicolas Jackson, and the experience of Sadio Mané to challenge the French defense.
Likely Lineups
France:
Maignan – Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba, Theo Hernandez – Rabiot, Tchouaméni – Olise, Dembélé, Doué – Mbappé.
Senegal:
Mendy – Diatta, Mamadou Sarr, Niakhaté, El Hadji Malick Diouf – Lamine Camara, Idrissa Gueye, Pape Gueye – Ismaïla Sarr, Nicolas Jackson, Sadio Mané.
This clash between France and Senegal promises a high-level spectacle. With the ambitions of the Blues and the determination of the Lions of Teranga, all the ingredients are in place for an intense and fiercely contested match as they kick off their journey in the 2026 World Cup.
