Désiré Doué has this Tuesday (16) the opportunity to make his name in France’s debut at the 2026 World Cup. The young Paris Saint-Germain striker starts the tournament against Senegal, in the first round of Group I, at the MetLife Stadium, in East Rutherford, in the United States, with the mission of entering as an offensive option and helping the team to start with victory.
At 21 years old, Doué is experiencing a meteoric rise at PSG, where he registered 7 goals and 4 assists in Ligue 1 2025/2026, in addition to important contributions in European competitions. Revealed at Rennes and transferred for a high price, the versatile striker (right, left or midfielder) gained space as a Golden Boy and Champions League winner, representing the future of the French attack alongside Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise.
Doué, the young talent from France
France arrives at the World Cup as one of the main favorites for the title, occupying an elite position in the FIFA rankings. With Doué as a weapon on the bench or occasional starter, the team has depth and unpredictability in attack. In defense and midfield, names like William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Jules Koundé, Theo Hernández, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adrien Rabiot provide a solid base for Deschamps to exploit offensive talent.
On the Senegalese side, Pape Thiaw should use Édouard Mendy in goal and Kalidou Koulibaly in defense. Senegal, 15th in the ranking, dreams of repeating the feat of 2002, when they beat France 1-0 in the opening of the Korea and Japan Cup, with a goal from Papa Bouba Diop. The Teranga Lions have the experience of Sadio Mané and Nicolas Jackson.
Rise and historic reunion
The confrontation 24 years later carries strong symbolism. Doué, with rapid maturity in the national team and a recent history of decisive performances, now has the chance to debut in the World Cup and show his potential against the Senegalese defense. His speed and versatility can be fundamental in changing the game from the bench or starting position. Referee Alireza Faghani commands the duel, which promises intensity.
Probable France lineup: Maignan; Koundé, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernández; Tchouaméni, Rabiot; Olise, Dembélé, Doué; Mbappe. Senegal must come with Mendy; Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhaté; and strikers like Mané and Jackson.
What’s at stake in Group I
A victory for France practically advances the classification, considering the superior squad. For Doué, the game represents the chance to debut with impact and consolidate his place in the new French generation. The stadium must have a significant audience, with mixed fans.
Where to watch live
In Brazil, transmission is carried out by SBT on an open signal, with options also on Globoplay and other platforms. The ball rolls at 4pm (Brasília time).
France enters as favorite, but history warns of Senegal’s danger. Désiré Doué and the young blue attack have everything it takes to make a difference and start the campaign with confidence.
