Senegals World Cup 2026 Squad Preview Released by FIFA Officials

Senegal Arrives at Third Consecutive World Cup with Strong Squad

Senegal, Africa’s top-ranked team, has arrived at their third consecutive World Cup, seeking to lift the trophy. The team, known as the Lions of Teranga, boasts an impressive squad and aims to make a significant impact in the tournament.

In their inaugural World Cup appearance in 2002, Senegal stunned France 1-0, marking one of the biggest upsets in the competition’s history. They went on to top a challenging group that included Denmark and Uruguay before being eliminated by Turkey in the quarterfinals.

Twenty years later, Senegal returns as one of Africa’s strongest contenders, having remained unbeaten throughout qualifying. Their recent victory over England marked a significant milestone, with Senegal becoming the first African side to beat the Three Lions at Wembley Stadium.

Coach Pape Thiaw has unveiled a 28-man squad for the tournament, which he will need to trim by two players before the competition begins. Veteran forward Sadio Mane, 34, is set to play in his final World Cup and has expressed his desire to retire from international football after the tournament.

Mane, who was named AFCON player of the tournament in January, remains a key player for Senegal despite some decline in his pace. He will be looking to add to his record 53 goals in 126 appearances for the team.

Thiaw replaced long-serving coach Aliou Cisse as manager in late 2024 and led Senegal to an undefeated qualification campaign, as well as victories over England and Morocco in the AFCON final. However, Thiaw’s decision to leave the pitch during the AFCON final has raised questions about his judgment under pressure.

Senegal’s squad features several players familiar to European fans, including Nicolas Jackson, who is on loan at Bayern Munich from Chelsea, and Ismaila Sarr, who excelled for Crystal Palace in recent seasons. The team’s midfield talent, Pape Matar Sarr, is also expected to play a crucial role in their World Cup campaign.

With their strong squad and experienced coach, Senegal is poised to make a significant impact in the tournament.

Source: Al Jazeera