France vs Senegal Tactical Analysis — What Went Wrong in the First Half

The First Half That Shocked France

France vs Senegal. 0-0 at half-time. France registered zero shots on target in 45 minutes against a Senegal team that pressed aggressively and won every aerial duel. For the tournament favourites, it was a concerning display. Here is the complete tactical analysis of what went wrong — and how France fixed it.

Why Senegal Succeeded in the First Half

Senegal pressed in a 4-4-2 medium block — sitting deep enough to deny France forward runs, but pressing aggressively when France played out from the back. Their key tactical instruction: prevent Griezmann from receiving the ball between the lines. Without Griezmann as the creative link, France struggled to connect midfield and attack.

France wide players — Dembele on the right, whoever started on the left — were tracked tightly and denied the space they need to create. The result: France kept possession but could not penetrate. 67% possession, zero shots on target. Sterile domination.

What Changed at Half-Time

Olise came on. His directness — running at defenders immediately, not sideways — disrupted Senegal shape. His speed created different problems to Dembele, who is more of a crafty dribbler. And his sensational assist for Mbappe first goal came from exactly the kind of direct, penetrating run that Senegal could not handle.

The Lesson for France

Against Brazil or Germany in the knockout rounds, a 0-0 at half-time could result in conceding. Deschamps must find a way to penetrate organized defences in the first half. Olise starting would be the most obvious solution — but Deschamps tactical conservatism suggests he will persist with his preferred lineup and make reactive adjustments.