France
Senegal
Team Overview
In their last friendly match, France hosted Northern Ireland and secured a convincing 3-1 victory. This win marks a positive step for the team as they prepare for their upcoming World Cup clash against Senegal.
Match statistics (France vs Northern Ireland):
Team Overview
Senegal faced Saudi Arabia in their last friendly, which ended in a goalless draw. This result comes after a narrow loss to the USA, and they will be looking to bounce back against France in the World Cup.
In a commanding performance, France secured a 3-1 victory over Senegal in their opening match of the World Cup group stage. Kylian Mbappe was the standout player, scoring twice and providing a significant threat throughout the game.
The match began with both teams testing each other, but it was France who gradually took control. With 54% possession and 11 total shots compared to Senegal's 6, the French side demonstrated their attacking prowess. Despite a goalless first half, the momentum shifted in the second half when Mbappe opened the scoring in the 66th minute, assisted by Michael Olise.
Senegal fought back, making several substitutions to inject fresh energy into their play. However, France doubled their lead in the 82nd minute through Bradley Barcola, who scored with an assist from Adrien Rabiot. Senegal managed to pull one back in stoppage time with a goal from Ibrahima Mbaye, but it was too little too late.
In the dying moments of the match, Mbappe sealed the victory with his second goal in the 90+6th minute, showcasing France's clinical finishing. With 8 shots on target to Senegal's 2, France's offensive display was complemented by a solid defensive effort, allowing them to start their World Cup campaign with a crucial win.
France has shown a strong performance in their recent matches, scoring an average of 2.4 goals per game over their last five outings, while conceding 1.2 goals per game. They have won 4 out of their last 5 matches, with a notable victory against Northern Ireland (3-1). Senegal, on the other hand, has had a mixed form, scoring 1.4 goals per game and conceding an equal number in their last five matches. Their recent match against the USA ended in a 2-3 loss, indicating some defensive vulnerabilities.
In terms of statistical performance, France has a significant advantage in ball possession, averaging 73% in their last match, compared to Senegal's lower possession rates. France's attacking prowess is highlighted by their total shots (27) and shots on target (5) against Northern Ireland, showcasing their ability to create chances. Senegal's recent matches have seen them struggle defensively, which could be a critical factor in this upcoming encounter.
Tactically, France is likely to employ a high-pressing game, utilizing their pace on the wings to exploit Senegal's defensive frailties. Senegal may focus on counter-attacks, but their ability to maintain possession will be crucial to avoid being overwhelmed by France's attacking threats.
M. Maignan
G
J. Kounde
D
D. Upamecano
D
W. Saliba
D
T. Hernandez
D
A. Tchouameni
M
A. Rabiot
M
M. Olise
M
O. Dembele
M
D. Doue
M
K. Mbappe
F
E. Mendy
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K. Diatta
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M. Sarr
—
M. Niakhate
—
M. Diouf
—
P. Ciss
—
L. Camara
—
I. Ndiaye
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H. Diarra
—
S. Mane
—
C. Ndiaye
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