Nigeria, June 17 -- France made a winning start in Group I of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 3-1 victory over Senegal in a match that came alive in the second half.

The opening 45 minutes ended goalless, but it was far from dull. Senegal created several chances through Ismaila Sarr, Nicolas Jackson and Sadio Mane, while France threatened through Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Desire Doue.

Despite the attacking efforts from both sides, neither team could find the breakthrough before halftime.

France returned to the field in the second half with greater purpose and began to take control of the game. Their pressure finally paid off in the 66th minute when Michael Olise set up Kylian Mbappe, who finished calmly to give Les Bleus the le...