World Cup: Senegal line up high profile pre-tournament friendlies

African champions Senegal have outlined some high profile international friendly matches in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be held between June 11 and July 19.

The West African nation has finalized five friendly matches to help the Teranga Lions build momentum with two fixtures in March and three in May, including a strategic tour to the United States.

The first international window will serve as a warm-up game with facing Peru and then fellow West Africans The Gambia as coach Pape Thiaw seeks to build team cohesion and as well give playing time to certain fringe players.

Senegal are paired against former World Champions France

The second phase of preparation will take the Lions to the United States, one of the host countries for the 23rd edition of the World Cup. This strategic choice will allow the national team to familiarize itself with the logistical, climatic, and organizational environment of the tournament.

A friendly match against the United States, announced several months ago, has been confirmed. In addition to this schedule, there will be a double-header against Saudi Arabia.

This information was revealed by Ndiamé Diop, president of the organizing committee of the Senegalese Football Federation, in an interview with Source A.

defied the odds to beat Morocco 1-0 courtesy Pape Gueye’s late strike at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations to give the Teranga Lions a second continental trophy at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in January.

Senegal are paired in Group I with France, Norway and a yet to qualify opponent from the inter-confederation play-offs.