France vs Senegal

Reasoning

While France are big favourites and should win the majority of the time, Senegal are a very dangerous opponent who are more than capable of avoiding defeat. As one of Africa's strongest teams, Senegal combine physical intensity, tactical discipline, and high-quality attackers (Sadio Mané, Nicolas Jackson, Ismaïla Sarr). They are hard to break down when organised and can punish any French defensive lapse on the counter. France have not looked completely convincing in the lead-up to the tournament. They conceded in several recent friendlies and can sometimes be exposed at the back when they push forward aggressively. Major tournament opening matches are often tighter than expected, and Senegal have the experience and mentality to make this a real contest. At 5.00 (better than BetClown 4.80 and FestivalPlay 4.88), this price significantly overstates the risk of Senegal getting nothing from the game. Senegal have the tools to at least earn a point against even the strongest nations.