The magical Michael Olise was the key to France's victory over Senegal at the 2026 World Cup

France started the 2026 World Cup with a 3-1 victory over Senegal, with Michael Olise playing a key role in that triumph. Although Kylian Mbappe scored two goals and became the best scorer in the history of the French national team, it was Olise who solved the Senegalese defense. Didier Deschamps' players, despite their huge offensive potential, often gave the impression of a team that did not fully use their potential. The first half of the match at MetLife Stadium was typical of Deschamps' style of play - solid but lacking in sparkle. Only after the break, thanks to Olise's shift to the center, France gained fluidity in attack.  Olise, known for his intelligence on the pitch, made an assist that forced Senegal to change their defensive tactics. His precise pass opened the way to the first goal of the match, which forced the Senegalese to come out of deep defense and opened the game. Although Olise did not score a goal, his attitude on the pitch gained the recognition of both fans and experts. Thierry Henry, commenting on Olise's performance, said: "This dream is coming true. He doesn't play football, he thinks it." Olise's cooperation with other stars of the French national team, such as Mbappe and Dembele, allows us to believe that France is ready for further successes during this World Cup. --- ## Related Articles 1. [Frankrijk toontklasse na stroeve start: 1-3 zege op Senegal bij WK-opener](https://oranjenet.live/nl/news/frankrijk-toont-klasse-na-stroeve-start-1-3-zege-op-senegal-bij-wk-opener) 2. [World Cup 2026](https://azkalsgoal.com/fil/news/world-cup-ni-brahim-diaz-puwedeng-magpasya-sa-kinabukasan-niya-habang-juventus-at-inter-nagmamasid-sa-bituin-ng-real-madrid)