World Cup 2026 : Senegal dominates France at halftime but fails to capitalize

Senegal looked the more enterprising side throughout the opening 45 minutes against France in this Group I clash at the 2026 World Cup. Defensively solid and threatening on the break, the Lions of Teranga, however, lacked cutting edge in front of goal—most notably when Ismaïla Sarr squandered a golden chance just before halftime.

France and Senegal head into the break deadlocked (0-0) in this highly anticipated Group I showdown at New York's MetLife Stadium. Still, it was the Lions of Teranga who left the stronger impression in the first half, imposing their intensity, defensive resilience, and lightning-quick transitions.

Pape Thiaw’s men regularly sought to exploit Nicolas Jackson’s pace in behind, putting consistent pressure on a French backline that was repeatedly tested. Nevertheless, Dayot Upamecano stood tall in the duels, snuffing out several dangerous moves orchestrated by Sadio Mané and Ismaïla Sarr.

France, for their part, dominated possession (56%), but Didier Deschamps’ side lacked bite in the final third. Although Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé tried to inject some menace, the Senegalese defense held firm. The Lions may well rue their missed opportunities—especially Ismaïla Sarr’s glaring miss in first-half stoppage time, denying Senegal a deserved lead at the interval.