Senegal draw a blank as France arrive in Boston

France touch down in Boston – six days until your World Cup starts

Didier Deschamps and the France squad have arrived in Boston ahead of their World Cup opener against Senegal on June 17 (1). The match is now six days away. France enter as heavy favourites, but the buildup has not been entirely comfortable – Deschamps has been talking up Spain's evolution, a sign he is already thinking beyond the group stage (3).

Senegal fire blanks in final warm-up

Your last test before the World Cup ended in frustration. Senegal were held to a 0–0 draw by Saudi Arabia in what was meant to be a confidence-boosting run-out (2). No goals, no momentum, and questions to answer before facing France in six days. A clean sheet is something, but the attack needs to find its rhythm fast.

Deschamps has Spain on his mind, not just Senegal

The France manager gave an interview this week where he praised Spain's style, saying "Spain has added something to their style that does a lot of damage" (3). Reading between the lines: he is confident enough about the Senegal game to be looking ahead. That should sting. It is bulletin board material if the dressing room wants it.