Kylian Mbappe wrapped up in 'biggest World Cup controversy yet' as France beat Senegal

Keith Hackett was left baffled that France were not awarded a penalty in France’s 3-1 victory over Senegal.

The 2018 World Cup champions started their tournament off with a win as Kylian Mbappe's brace and Bradley Barcola’s goal ensured that they picked up three points.

However, it could have been a lot better for the French as they were denied a strong penalty claim midway through the second half.

Mbappe appeared to be brought down inside the Senegal box when Sadio Mane lunged in, attempting to win the ball.

However, despite VAR recommending a review, referee Alireza Faghani stood by his decision after watching the footage on the monitor.

Hackett was completely against the call and believed that France should have been awarded a penalty.

The decision not to award France a penalty against Senegal is arguably the most controversial yet.

The referee claims that Real Madrid star Mbappe had initiated the contact, therefore, a spot kick was not awarded.

However, Hackett exclusively told Football Insider that this was the “biggest error” in the World Cup to date as France were made to wait to score the opener.

He said: “The biggest error by a Match official in the World Cup to date.

“Mbappe, in my opinion, was fouled by the defender, and I am amazed that referee Alireza Faghani awarded a corner kick.

“VAR correctly intervened, recognising that in his opinion the referee not awarding a penalty kick had made a clear and obvious error.

“The referee visited the monitor, and there was confusion surrounding his verbal explanation

“In my opinion, he was wrong not to award a penalty kick.”

So far, only two penalties have been awarded in the 2026 World Cup.

Switzerland were awarded the first when Breel Embolo scored against Qatar.

The only other penalty was awarded for Germany in their 7-1 victory over Curacao, which Kai Havertz converted.

This is no doubt a surprisingly low total, especially given some of the controversial decisions that have been made.

It remains to be seen how long it will take for the next penalty to be awarded in the World Cup.