The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued an official statement regarding Senegal as they prepare to face France in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The highly anticipated Group I clash is scheduled for Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. In the other group fixture, Norway will take on Iraq.
Historic Rivalry Renewed
Senegal and France have not met since the 2002 World Cup, when the Teranga Lions stunned the world by defeating the defending champions in the tournament's opening match. Senegal's current head coach, Pape Thiaw, was an unused substitute in that historic encounter, while former captain Aliou Cisse led the team on the pitch.
CAF highlighted the significance of the match, noting that Senegal will become the sixth African nation to compete in this year's tournament. The governing body emphasized the importance of the fixture given its historical context from 24 years ago in Seoul, South Korea.
Qualifying Campaigns
France cruised through the European qualifiers with an impressive record of five wins and one draw. Senegal, meanwhile, secured their spot by winning seven matches and drawing three in the CAF qualification series. CAF described the match as one of the most anticipated of the group stage, promising a compelling chapter in a rivalry that began with one of the World Cup's greatest shocks.
Pape Thiaw Rejects Underdog Label
Senegal's head coach, Pape Thiaw, has dismissed suggestions that his team are underdogs ahead of the match. Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Thiaw stated, "Would it be a surprise if Senegal were to beat France? For me, no. Because we have world-class players in this team. We've qualified for the last three World Cups in a row."
The former striker highlighted Senegal's recent success, noting that they have reached three of the last four Africa Cup of Nations finals, winning two of them. He reiterated that a victory over France would not be a surprise. "This is a World Cup, and I believe every team here has earned its place. In football, I don't like talking about surprises. Teams have worked hard to be here, and we're going to play every match with the intention of winning it," he added.
Senegal captain Sadio Mane has confirmed that this tournament will be his last for the national team, as he plans to retire from international football afterward.
CAF President's Message
In a related development, CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe sent a letter to the Senegalese Football Federation, praising the national team and wishing them success in the World Cup. The letter underscores CAF's support for Senegal as they embark on their campaign.
