World Cup: “Senegal not intimidated by France”

The 2002 FIFA World Cup remains one of the most memorable tournaments due to Senegal’s giant-killing antics after they stunned France 1-0.

The Teranga Lions edged Les Blues courtesy of Papa Bouba Diop’s iconic goal that hit the headlines. Some 23 years later, meetings between the two teams still produce fierce rivalry.

Little wonder, the latest 2026 FIFA World Cup’s draw conducted on Friday generated interest after the former Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions were drawn alongside the 1998 world kings.

Who else were Senegal drawn with?

Now, Bacary Cissé, chairperson of the Federation of Senegalese Football (FSF)’s Communication Commission, has given its reaction to the draw via a statement.

Cissé shared the emotions of what meeting France means bearing in mind the historical connections between the two countries.

“Between Senegal and France, there is more than just football: historical, cultural, and human ties. Player trajectories shaped between two continents, two identities, two rays of light. But when the two nations step onto the pitch, everything else disappears,” he wrote.

“Only the essential remains: a flag close to their hearts and pride in their eyes. Facing France, the Lions are never intimidated. They are inspired. Challenging a favorite is to enter history through the front door. Every duel, every run, every breath will carry this Senegalese will to demonstrate that no giant is untouchable.”

The Senegalese FA official also described the group’s other opponents Norway as tough, offering contrasting playing styles.

“The clash between the fire of Africa and the ice of the North. Norway is a team forged in the cold, but animated by a warmth of conviction. A nation of rigor, discipline, and power. A team that knows how to suffer, run, and strike,” he added.

“For the Lions, facing Norway means entering a clash of forces: Senegalese creativity and passion versus Scandinavian structure and intensity. Nothing will be easy. But Senegal has never chosen the easy path: it prefers the paths where victory is won with heart.”

 

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Pape Thiaw’s men were drawn in Group I alongside the former World Cup champions and Erling Halaand-led Norway with the fourth opponents to emerge from play-offs.

Senegal qualified for the World Cup after trouncing Mauritania 4-0 in their final Group B qualifying game. In Kinshasa, DR Congo managed to progress to the playoffs with a narrow win over Sudan before triumphing over Nigeria in the African regional playoff to reach the intercontinental playoff that will take place in March next year.