On Tuesday in East Rutherford, France overcame Senegal (3-1) in the opening match of Group I at the 2026 World Cup. This result doesn’t fully reflect the first half scenario, according to Alain Giresse, former French international and ex-coach of the Lions of Teranga, who spoke to Afrik-Foot. The coach believes the initial power dynamics suggested a different outcome before the French response after the break.
In the first forty-five minutes, Senegal displayed solid organization and overall control of the game, without conceding any clear chances. France, on the other hand, struggled with technical errors and lost possession frequently, failing to establish their usual rhythm. The Lions even had the most dangerous situations, particularly through Nicolas Jackson, but couldn’t capitalize on their territorial dominance. This lack of efficiency weighed heavily on the match’s outcome.
Alain Giresse emphasized Senegal’s strong start: “If we analyze the first half, we can say it was in favor of the Lions. They conceded no chances and were the ones showing more control, having the only opportunities, especially thanks to Nicolas Jackson. There was a lot of technical waste, lost balls, a lack of commitment, I didn’t expect that. Senegal could have taken the lead because they had the capability.”
After the break, the match’s dynamics changed drastically.
With a higher block and an accelerated pace, the Blues quickly took control. The influence of Michael Olise helped to smooth out the attacking play, putting a gradually cornered Senegal under pressure. The speed of French attackers like Kylian Mbappé, Bradley Barcola, and Ousmane Dembélé ultimately made the difference in the spaces left by a less compact defense.
Pape Thiaw’s choices also raised questions after the match, particularly the starting position of Kalidou Koulibaly, who was returning from injury and lacking rhythm. Against the French offensive intensity, the defender struggled, though his importance in the Senegalese setup remains unquestioned. Sadio Mané, very active in the first half, also lost influence as the match progressed, illustrating the collective retreat of the Lions after the break.
Former coach of the Lions of Teranga, Alain Giresse, believes Senegal still has a chance to qualify for the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup, despite their recent defeat (3-1) to France.https://t.co/RxAn1Nd47a#Linfodrome pic.twitter.com/twHmeQ0kE9
— linfodrome.com (@Linfodrome) June 18, 2026
For the next match against Norway on June 22 in East Rutherford, adjustments are being considered. The Scandinavian team, which won against Iraq (4-1), presents a different offensive profile with Erling Haaland and Alexander Sørloth, which could push the Senegalese staff to adapt their organization. Despite the defeat, Alain Giresse believes nothing is lost in the qualification race: “Since the draw, I’ve said that France, Norway, and Senegal will advance.”
