Senegal federation justifies friendly matches against Gambia, Peru

Senegalese Football Federation (SFF) has defended their decision to host the Gambia, and Peru during the upcoming FIFA international break.

The African champions will confront Peru in France on March 28 and come up against the Gambia in Dakar on March 3. A number of Senegalese fans have looked down the fixtures insisting they are not good enough to give their national team a challenge they deserve.

After winning the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, Senegal are preparing to take part in the 2026 FIFA World which will take place this summer in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

‘Friendly matches are approved by the coach’

“In the recent past, when we played Kenya, some observers criticized that opponent. Yet, that match was very beneficial for Senegal. During that match, Pape tried his 3-5-2 formation,” Senegal FA official Amara Traore told Wiwsport.

“He dared to use it in the final. In the second half, he reverted to the 3-5-2 he had already tested against Kenya. So, to tell you that a friendly match always has its importance.”

He added: “Friendly matches are approved by the coach. And when he approves a match, he has specific objectives in mind. He doesn’t approve a match just for the sake of it. It’s also important to have variations in friendly matches.”

Senegal will face France, Norway at World Cup

Traore continued: “Today, Peru, even if they haven’t qualified, is still a team to respect. Gambia too, it’s a local derby. So, it will be a very close match. It won’t be an easy match. I think these are important matches.

“Especially since afterwards, in the preparation, there will be tougher opponents. That means the opponents are staggered in their preparation. People are right to ask these questions. But there are still four months left, and most teams have already scheduled their friendly matches.”

At the World Cup, Senegal have been drawn in a group with France, Norway, and a playoff winner who will be determined in a few weeks.