Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has insisted that a victory over France in their opening 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I clash would not be considered a shock result, citing the quality and experience within the Teranga Lions squad.
Senegal take on the 2018 world champions tonight looking to recreate one of the most famous moments in African football history, when they stunned France 1-0 in the opening match of the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Thiaw Rejects Underdog Status
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated encounter, Thiaw made it clear that Senegal should no longer be viewed as outsiders on the global stage.
The former Senegal international pointed to the country’s consistent appearances at major tournaments and recent success in Africa as evidence that his side belongs among football’s elite nations.
“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. In recent editions of the AFCON, we’ve reached three finals out of four. So, for me, it wouldn’t be a surprise.”
Focused on One Game at a Time
Despite the confidence, Thiaw stressed the importance of remaining focused and approaching the tournament one match at a time.
The Senegal coach acknowledged the quality of the opposition but emphasized that every nation at the World Cup has earned its place through hard work and merit.
“I know how hard my team works. We take things one match at a time.”
“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.”
Deschamps Wants Winning Start
France head coach Didier Deschamps also highlighted the importance of starting the tournament strongly but stopped short of describing the opening match as decisive.
The experienced tactician noted that there are still two more group matches to play but admitted that opening with a victory remains the ideal scenario.
“It’s important, very important, because it’s the first match, but that’s true for every team in the competition.”
“Starting with a win in a four-team group is the best possible scenario. That’s always the objective when approaching the first match.”
History on Senegal’s Side
The two nations have met only once before, but it remains one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history.
Senegal famously defeated defending champions France 1-0 in Seoul in 2002 thanks to Papa Bouba Diop’s iconic goal, a result that helped launch the Teranga Lions into the global spotlight.
More than two decades later, another victory over Les Bleus would rank among the greatest achievements in Senegal’s football history.
Conclusion
While France enter the tournament as favourites, Senegal’s confidence suggests they are not travelling to Arlington merely to make up the numbers.
With a talented squad, recent tournament pedigree and memories of their historic 2002 triumph, the Teranga Lions believe they have every reason to dream of another famous World Cup night.
