France vs Senegal begin their World Cup Group I campaign on Monday in what is expected to be one of the standout fixtures of the opening round.
Both sides enter the tournament with ambitions of progressing to the knockout stages, making a positive start crucial in a group where every point could prove important.
France are expected to rely on the core of players who have featured regularly under Didier Deschamps in recent years. The 2018 world champions possess quality across the pitch, with captain Kylian Mbappe expected to lead the attack alongside Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise.
In midfield, Aurelien Tchouameni and Adrien Rabiot are likely to provide balance, while the defensive unit of William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano is expected to start in front of goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
Senegal, meanwhile, will look to combine defensive organisation with quick counter-attacks. The Teranga Lions remain one of Africa’s strongest sides and will rely heavily on the experience of Sadio Mane to trouble the French defence.
Kalidou Koulibaly is expected to marshal the backline, while Nicolas Jackson could lead the attack as Senegal aim to cause an upset.
Possible Line-ups
France
Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Theo Hernandez; Tchouameni, Rabiot; Olise, Doue, Mbappe, Dembele.
Senegal
Mendy; Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhate, Diouf; Camara, Pape Gueye; Sarr, Diarra, Mane; Jackson.
Team News
France have no major injury concerns ahead of the match and are expected to field their strongest available side.
Senegal are also likely to have a full squad available, with Mane set to play a key role in attack.
Prediction
France head into the match as clear favourites based on recent form and squad depth. Les Bleus have won four of their last five matches, including victories over Brazil and Colombia earlier this year.
Senegal have remained competitive against strong opposition but have struggled for consistency in recent outings, including a defeat to the United States and a draw against Saudi Arabia.
While Senegal possess enough quality to make the contest difficult, France’s attacking firepower could prove decisive.
Prediction: France 2-0 Senegal
