Live updates of the Fifa World Cup clash between France and Senegal in New Jersey.France and their potent attack featuring Kylian Mbappe, Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele and flying winger Michael Olise open their account against Senegal in New Jersey.The French will be desperate to avoid any repetition of the opening-day defeat by the Senegalese they suffered at the 2002 World Cup in South Korea, a result which led to the then-reigning champions crashing out in the group phase.“The first match is very important but it’s not decisive. Starting with a win in a four-team group is ideal and always the objective,” France coach Didier Deschamps said on Monday.“But the one thing we can’t measure or quantify is the emotional aspect. Some players might tense up with the atmosphere around the match,” Deschamps warned.France have reached the final in four of the last seven World Cups, winning two and also losing two more on penalties.Go all in to unlock every Fifa World Cup 2026 match with a TVNZ+ Event Pass.