FIFA World Cup 2026: Deschamps Issues Blunt Halftime Words to Spark France Win over Senegal
Kylian Mbappe scored twice and Bradley Barcola added a goal after Deschamps changed tactics at halftime.
- On Tuesday, France defeated Senegal 3-1 in their World Cup opening match in East Rutherford, New Jersey, overcoming a sluggish start to their Group campaign.
- Manager Didier Deschamps admitted he delivered 'home truths' at halftime after France looked lifeless through 45 minutes, with Senegal's Ismaila Sarr missing a great chance to go ahead.
- Deschamps shifted Michael Olise into a playmaking role and brought on substitute Bradley Barcola, who scored France's second goal in the 82nd minute to spark the revival.
- Kylian Mbappe scored twice in the second half, prompting Deschamps to defend him against criticism about his defensive work: 'He's not here to defend,' he said.
- The victory dispels the cloud from 2002 when France lost to Senegal in their opening match and crashed out in the group stage. France faces Iraq next before concluding against Norway.
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16 Articles
If Kylian Mbappé scored a double and Michael Olise was elected man of the game during the victory of the Blues against Senegal Tuesday night (3-1), for their entry into the World Cup 2026, Ousmane Dembélé has less shined. To the point that Didier Deschamps could put him on the bench?
The offensive quartet of the Blues that the football planet envyes us did not reveal all its potential Tuesday against Senegal (3-1), far from necessary. Even though, from one period to another, Didier Deschamps managed to find keys to free his players.
Soccer-Deschamps issues blunt halftime words to spark France win over Senegal
EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey, June 16 (Reuters) - France manager Didier Deschamps admitted he delivered some home truths to his players at halftime during their 3-1 World Cup victory over Senegal on Tuesday, after a lifeless opening 45 minutes.
The bluesman analysed the success against Senegal (3-1) in the first game of the World Cup.
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