Foreign press split on France after Senegal win as Messi takes the headlines | OneFootball

Kylian Mbappé’s brace could not prevent mixed verdicts abroad after France beat Senegal 3-1, with outlets criticising a flat first half before praising a sharper second. Lionel Messi’s overnight hat-trick in a 3-0 win over Algeria dominated coverage and often pushed France down the running order.

In Spain, Italy, England and the United States, Messi drew lavish praise, and Argentina's Olé did not even feature France on its digital front page. Marca led with 'Olise propose et Mbappé dispose', placing the match beneath Messi’s feat.

Catalan daily Sport said Messi can still eclipse Mbappé and Erling Haaland, while Mundo Deportivo felt Mbappé again looked energised and decisive for France. In Germany, Bild paid little attention but already eyed a possible last-16 meeting, noting a prestigious attack that underwhelmed before half time.

Gazzetta dello Sport singled out Mbappé yet said France were disorganised and chaotic for a spell, likening them to pupils rifling through backpacks. In Portugal, Record said genius cut loose to turn the game, lauding a sumptuous second half led by Mbappé.

The Guardian said France started poorly and were second best before the break, but that the win and Mbappé’s double render early fluffs forgotten. In Senegal, Taggat hailed a heroic first act before yielding to French ruthlessness, DSports TV rued that matches do not end at 60 minutes, and Wiw Sport rated coach Pape Thiaw 2/10 and Kalidou Koulibaly 3/10.

Source: L'Équipe