France to face Senegal in FIFA World Cup 2026 opener Wednesday

Kathmandu— The FIFA World Cup 2026 will see some of the most popular star footballers in action this Wednesday.

Football icons Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo will be competing in their respective matches. The first games for these superstars will take place from 12:45 AM tonight (Tuesday) until 10:45 PM tomorrow. The much-anticipated opening match in Group ‘I’ will see France face Senegal at 12:45 AM, with title contenders and previous runners-up France eager for a strong start.

These two teams have met only once before in the World Cup. In the 2002 World Cup opening match, Senegal, playing their first World Cup, defeated reigning champions France 1-0, marking one of the biggest upsets in football history.

Meeting again in the World Cup after 24 years, France is keen to avenge that loss. The main hope for the coach rests on star forward Mbappe, who scored a hat-trick in the 2022 World Cup final. His speed, finishing, and ability to change the game’s direction at crucial moments are considered France’s greatest assets.

Senegal’s experienced striker Sadio Mane will once again be the focal point of the African team’s hopes. Senegal is known for its disciplined defensive play and swift counter-attacks.

**Haaland to Debut in World Cup**

In Group ‘I’, Norway will face Iraq today, with star striker Erling Haaland making his World Cup debut. The match at America’s Gillette Stadium will begin at 3:45 AM. This marks Norway’s first World Cup appearance in the 21st century.

Thanks to Haaland’s outstanding performance in the World Cup qualifiers, Norway has been seen as a ‘dark horse’ in this tournament. The Scandinavian team, which played aggressive football throughout the qualifiers, aims to maintain the same momentum in the World Cup. Haaland’s partnership with Martin Odegaard against Iraq will be closely watched.

**Messi Leads Argentina’s Title Defense Campaign**

Meanwhile, defending champions Argentina will take the field under Lionel Messi’s leadership. With millions of football fans worldwide, Argentina will face Algeria in their first Group ‘J’ match.

Although Argentina appears strong on paper, the ongoing World Cup has already provided plenty of surprises, keeping interest high in Algeria as well. The North African team will rely on defensive strength and rapid counter-attacks to put pressure on Argentina.

**Ronaldo Aims for Impactful Start with Portugal**

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal will compete against Congo at 10:45 PM on Wednesday. This World Cup holds special significance for Ronaldo, the highest goal scorer in world football. As captain, he aims to lead his team to a victorious start.

With a talented group of young players, Portugal is considered one of the potential title contenders. However, the African team Congo will aim to present a physically strong game to prevent Portugal from securing an easy win.

Additionally, in Group ‘J’, European team Austria and Asian nation Jordan will face off at 9:45 AM on Wednesday.