France overcame Senegal in their World Cup 2026 opener 3-1 as Kylian Mbappe played an integral part to it with a brace.

Kylian Mbappe delivered not just goals but a memorable celebration after it. The French superstar’s brace propelled Les Bleus to a strong start in Group I, while his playful flute mime stole the show.

Why did Kylian Mbappe Celebrate playing Imaginary Flute?

The roots of the celebration trace back to a lighthearted interview with comedian and TV host James Corden for FOX Sports. Mbappe casually revealed he played the flute for one or two years as a child, starting around age seven. Corden suggested it could become a new goal celebration. True to his word, Mbappe promised: if he scored in France’s World Cup opener against Senegal, he would mime playing the flute.

He kept that promise in spectacular fashion. After finding the net twice, the 27-year-old striker brought out the imaginary flute, delighting fans and sparking comparisons to Paul Gascoigne’s iconic 1990s celebration.

France Edge Senegal in a Competitive Opener

France faced a tough test against a Senegal side packed with talent and ambition. Les Bleus took control thanks to Mbappe’s clinical finishing. He opened the scoring with a clinical strike and added a second later, showcasing his trademark speed and composure in front of goal. France eventually ran out 3-1 winners, with the third goal providing breathing room after Senegal pulled one back.

Mbappe’s brace was more than just two goals, it pushed him past Olivier Giroud to become France’s outright all-time leading scorer with 58 international goals in 98 appearances. At just 27, he has already surpassed legends like Thierry Henry and is rewriting the record books with an astonishing goals-per-game ratio.