Title contenders France begin their World Cup campaign against tricky opposition in AFCON winners Senegal. The 2018 champions, who faced disappointment against Argentina four years later, are favorites alongside Spain and Lionel Scaloni’s side.

However, Senegal—who controversially lost their AFCON title after chaotic scenes in the final against Morocco—will pose a significant challenge in a competitive Group I, which includes Erling Haaland-led Norway.

Both teams have experienced a mixed build-up to the tournament:

• Senegal secured wins against Peru and Gambia but suffered a loss to co-hosts USA and drew with Saudi Arabia.
• Didier Deschamps’ men endured a 2-1 defeat to Ivory Coast but bounced back with a 3-1 victory over Northern Ireland.

Match Details

• Date: Tuesday, 16 June
• Venue: MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
• Kick-off: 3 PM local time (8 PM BST)

How to Watch
UK viewers can catch the match live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with coverage starting at 7:30 PM BST.

Team News

• Concerns over William Saliba, who aggravated a back injury during Arsenal’s Champions League final, have eased as he returned to full training.
• Jules Kounde also recovered from a muscle issue sustained against Northern Ireland.
• Senegal may miss Assane Diao, who was sidelined with a contusion, while Cherif Ndiaye remains a doubt.

Predicted Line-ups
France XI: Maignan, Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, T. Hernandez, Tchouameni, Rabiot, Olise, Doue, Mbappe, Dembele.