Ibrahim Mbaye scores late goal for Senegal in dramatic comeback attempt against France
The 18-year-old PSG forward became the youngest player to score for Senegal in World Cup history, netting in the 90+5 minute of a 1-3 loss to France
An 18-year-old substitute walked onto the pitch at MetLife Stadium with Senegal trailing France 0-3. Five minutes into stoppage time, Ibrahim Mbaye found the back of the net, denying France a clean sheet and writing his name into Senegalese football history in the process.
The goal, scored on June 16, 2026, made Mbaye the youngest player to ever score for Senegal in a FIFA World Cup match. At 18 years and 142 days old, the PSG forward turned a lopsided group stage defeat into a moment that will echo through African football for years.
The match that almost got away from everyone
France came into this World Cup group stage fixture as heavy favorites and played accordingly. Kylian Mbappé and Bradley Barcola each found the scoresheet, helping Les Bleus build a commanding 3-0 lead that seemed to settle matters well before the final whistle.
The teenager delivered. His 90+5 minute strike was more than a consolation. Instead of talking about France’s dominance, the post-match discussion shifted to a kid from Dakar who refused to let the moment pass him by.
A record-breaker in the making
The goal against France was his fourth for Senegal’s senior national team, a tally that would be impressive for any player, let alone one who turned 18 in January 2026.
Born on January 24, 2008, Mbaye has accumulated 12 caps for Senegal heading into this World Cup. That ratio of four goals in 12 appearances suggests he’s not just getting minutes out of politeness. He’s producing.
Earlier in 2026, Mbaye made history at the Africa Cup of Nations by becoming the youngest Senegalese player to score in that tournament. Now he holds the equivalent record at the World Cup.
At club level, Mbaye joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2025, where he plays as a right winger and forward. His market value sits at approximately €30M.
Context within Senegalese football
For Senegal’s remaining group matches, the question becomes whether Mbaye earns a starting role or continues as an impact substitute. His four international goals have come across multiple tournaments, suggesting this is production, not luck.