2026 World Cup Preview: France vs Senegal Picks, Odds, and Full Match Schedule
France steps into the 2026 World Cup spotlight today after pre-tournament co-favorites Spain failed to score against Cape Verde, ending in a goalless draw on Monday. The tournament continues with some of the biggest clashes yet, including France vs. Senegal, Iraq vs. Norway, and Argentina vs. Algeria.
The action promises to be intense. Below is what you need to know about today's games, complete with betting odds, best picks, and promotional offers to enhance your experience.
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Match Preview: France vs Senegal
In the previous World Cup final, Kylian Mbappe became only the second player ever to score a hat trick in the final, yet France lost to Argentina on penalties. This year, Les Bleus are once again among the favorites, boasting a formidable squad that includes Mbappe, Dembele, and Olise. The team also features talents like Desire Doue, Ryan Cherki, N'Golo Kante, and Jules Kounde, making them a top contender to win it all.
Senegal, led by veterans such as Sadio Mane, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Edouard Mendy, brings plenty of talent and experience. Their Premier League stars include Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson and Tottenham’s Pape Matar Sarr. Senegal's strength lies in their physicality, tactical discipline, and tournament know-how, which could challenge any favorite who underestimates them.
Senegal recently played against the United States in Charlotte, narrowly losing 3-2. That game showed both their attacking potential and defensive struggles, although they have tightened up defensively in competitive matches.
This opening game might showcase attacking flair or cautious tactics as both teams adjust to the World Cup stage. Still, France should edge this match. Senegal's defense has weaknesses that Mbappe, Dembele, and Olise can exploit. Expect the French to claim three points.
Prediction: France to win (moneyline around -209, or an exact 3-1 score at +1200 on bet365)
Best Bet for France vs Senegal
Michael Olise anytime goalscorer (+250 on DraftKings)
Olise has been outstanding in the 2025-26 season, earning Bundesliga Player of the Year honors with Bayern Munich. He scored 15 goals and assisted 19 times, becoming the first Bundesliga player since 2019-20 to hit a 15-and-15 season without penalties. Recently, he scored a hat trick against Northern Ireland in France’s final friendly before the World Cup.
With defenses focusing on Mbappe and Dembele, Olise will find space on the right wing. At +250 odds, betting on him to score anytime seems like a smart move.
Today's World Cup Game Schedule (ET)
- France vs. Senegal – 3pm
- Iraq vs. Norway – 6pm
- Argentina vs. Algeria – 9pm
- Austria vs. Jordan – 12am (Wednesday)
Tomorrow's Matches to Watch (ET)
- Portugal vs. Congo – 1pm
- England vs. Croatia – 4pm
- Ghana vs. Panama – 7pm
- Uzbekistan vs. Colombia – 10pm
