France vs Senegal: All-time Head-to-head record ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026
The teams have faced each other just once before FIFA World Cup 2026.
France and Senegal are set to face off in a Group I fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at AT&T Stadium in Arlington on June 16. With Iraq and Norway also part of the group, both nations will be aiming to begin their campaign on a positive note and strengthen their chances of reaching the knockout rounds. A victory could provide valuable momentum ahead of the remaining group-stage fixtures, while a defeat would immediately increase the pressure on their next matches.
The Les Bleus enter the tournament as one of the favourites to challenge for the title. The 2018 world champions and 2022 runners-up have consistently been among the strongest teams in international football over the past decade.
Senegal, meanwhile, have emerged as one of Africa’s leading footballing nations in recent years, winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021 and reaching the Round of 16 at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Being led by a talented generation featuring players competing in Europe’s top leagues, the Lions of Teranga will be eager to test themselves against one of the sport’s traditional powerhouses.
Despite the stature of both nations, France and Senegal have met only once in senior international football. That encounter, however, remains one of the most memorable upsets in FIFA World Cup history.
Also Read: Preview: France vs Senegal prediction, odds, where to watch, time | FIFA World Cup 2026
France vs Senegal: Head-to-head records
The only previous meeting between France and Senegal took place on May 31, 2002, during the opening match of the FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan.
France entered the tournament as defending world champions and reigning European champions, boasting a squad filled with global stars. Senegal, on the other hand, were making their FIFA World Cup debut and were considered an underdog heading into the contest. Against all expectations, Senegal produced a disciplined and determined performance to secure a famous 1-0 victory.
Papa Bouba Diop scored the only goal of the match shortly before halftime, sending Senegal on their way to one of the greatest results in African football history.
The defeat also marked the beginning of a disappointing tournament for France, who failed to progress beyond the group stage.
More than two decades later, that result remains Senegal’s only victory over France and the only meeting between the two nations at the senior international level.
- Matches played: 1
- France wins: 0
- Senegal wins: 1
- Draws: 0
- Goals scored by France: 0
- Goals scored by Senegal: 1
France vs Senegal: What happened the last time both teams faced each other?
- France 0-1 Senegal (FIFA World Cup, 2002)
How many times have France and Senegal faced each other?
France and Senegal have met only once in senior international football before their FIFA World Cup 2026 clash.
What is the head-to-head record between France and Senegal?
Senegal lead the head-to-head record with one win from one meeting, while France are yet to beat the African side.
What happened the last time France and Senegal met?
Their only previous meeting came at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, where Senegal stunned defending champions France with a historic 1-0 victory.
For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.
Balancing her medical studies with a strong passion for Indian football, Preethi has been a dedicated follower of the sport. Her speciality is covering and discovering stories, talking to players, conducting their interviews, and drafting articles. She particularly covers Hyderabad FC and other stories from the ISL and I-League.