France open World Cup with win over Senegal, top power rankings

France beat Senegal in World Cup opener

France started their 2026 World Cup campaign with a win against Senegal on Thursday (1). The exact scoreline is not yet confirmed, but your team got the job done in the Group C opener. Deschamps stuck with his 4-2-3-1 and the attacking setup Rabiot talked about, and it paid off.

France top FIFA Power Rankings after first round

CBS Sports have France at number one in their World Cup power rankings after the opening round of matches (2). Argentina surged behind Messi, the USMNT started strong, and Spain and Cape Verde round out the top five. But France sit at the summit.

Akliouche and Gusto face the press Thursday evening

Maghnes Akliouche and Malo Gusto will speak at a press conference at 20:30 on Thursday (1). It is the first media appearance ahead of Monday's second group match against Iraq in Philadelphia.

Iraq next, in Philadelphia on Monday

France face Iraq in their second Group C match on Monday, June 22, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia (1). A win would put your team on the brink of the knockout rounds.

Bracket projections: a tough road from the last 16

RMC Sport's latest bracket predictions have France facing a difficult path from the round of 16 onward (4). Argentina, by contrast, are projected a smoother route. It is early, but the model suggests your team may have to do it the hard way.

Arsenal ready to move for Barcola

Bradley Barcola could be on the move. Arsenal are preparing to make an approach for the PSG and France winger, according to reports (3). He is currently with the national team at the World Cup, so any deal would likely wait until after the tournament.