Lamine Camara says Senegal have talent to win World Cup

Senegal midfielder Lamine Camara has maintained the African champions have what it takes to perform at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Lions of Teranga have been drawn in Group I alongside France, Norway, and Iraq. The tournament will take place from June 11 to July 19, and will be jointly hosted by sixteen cities—eleven in the United States, three in Mexico, and two in Canada.

The tournament will be the first FIFA World Cup to be hosted by three nations, and the first to include 48 teams, an expansion from 32.

Senegal going with great ambitions to win

“Many will be expecting a lot from us. They’ll think the African champions are coming,” Camara told RMC Sport as quoted by Wiw Sport.

“A World Cup is never easy; every team is a contender. We’re going to take every match seriously and respect all our opponents.”

The Monaco midfielder added: “France is a very strong team, with quality players. It won’t be an easy match.

“We have talent, quality, experience, and youth. We have everything we need to succeed… We’re going to this World Cup with great ambition to win the trophy.”

Ndiaye discusses life at Samsunspor

Meanwhile, Chérif Ndiaye says he has quickly adapted to his new challenge at Samsunspor. He arrived at the club from Red Star Belgrade, where he finished as the league’s top scorer.

“I wanted to take the next step. Samsunspor is an ambitious project, and I like challenges. Today, I understand the game better.

“I’ve improved in managing key moments and in my teamwork. I want to be more than just a football player; I want to be a role model, a leader for young players.”

Looking back on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations held in Morocco, the 30-year-old player said: “It was an incredible experience. We were like a family. Everything was happening so fast, but sometimes it felt like time stood still. We had to stay focused despite the tension.”

Senegal will kick off their World Cup campaign against France on June 16, at MetLife Stadium.