Ghosts of 2002 loom as favourites France face Senegal

World Cup favourites France face a tricky Group I opener against Senegal in New Jersey tonight, with memories of one of the biggest upsets in tournament history hanging heavily over the contest.

Senegal have a historic dark cloud hovering above France as they seek to recreate the giant-killing act that stunned the football world in 2002. For the second time this century, Lions of Teranga coach Pape Thiaw could witness a seismic World Cup shock from the dugout at the expense of a heavily fancied French side.

The current Senegal boss was an unused substitute when his country stunned defending champions France 1-0 in the opening game of the 2002 World Cup. It remains one of the darkest moments in French football history. While France crashed out in the group stage without scoring a goal, Senegal embarked on a dream run to the quarterfinals.

Twenty-four years later, Didier Deschamps is preparing for his final World Cup as France coach. The man who captained Les Bleus to their 1998 World Cup triumph is hoping to bow out on a high before reportedly handing over the reins to Zinedine Zidane.

Despite a surprise 2-1 friendly defeat to Ivory Coast earlier this month, France responded with a 3-1 win over Northern Ireland and have now scored at least twice in nine of their last 10 matches.

Their attacking options are the envy of most nations. Michael Olise enjoyed a remarkable campaign with Bayern Munich, registering 22 goals and 31 assists in 52 appearances. Alongside Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele and captain Kylian Mbappe, he forms part of a frightening frontline.

Yet the spotlight remains fixed on Mbappe. The France captain endured a trophyless season with Real Madrid despite finishing as La Liga's top scorer, and criticism has intensified over both his performances and leadership. Former World Cup winner Frank Leboeuf is among those who have questioned whether Mbappe is the right man to wear the captain's armband.

Inside the French camp, however, support remains unwavering. Dembele this week described the criticism directed at his close friend as "very, very unfair", insisting that Mbappe remains a leader within the squad.

The World Cup has often been Mbappe's sanctuary. The 27-year-old has scored 12 goals in just 14 World Cup appearances, matching Pelé's tally and leaving him only four behind Miroslav Klose's all-time record of 16.

Senegal, though, possess enough firepower of their own to make life uncomfortable for Les Bleus. Unbeaten throughout qualifying and appearing at a third successive World Cup, Thiaw's side arrive with genuine belief.

Sadio Mane, Senegal's all-time leading scorer with 54 international goals, contributed 23 goals and assists for Saudi Pro League champions Al-Nassr last season. Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr struck 21 goals during a memorable campaign, while Nicolas Jackson, Bamba Dieng and Iliman Ndiaye provide further attacking threat.

The Lions of Teranga saw a 17-match scoring streak end in a goalless draw with Saudi Arabia in their final warm-up fixture, but their attacking pedigree remains undeniable.