France manager Didier Deschamps highlights Senegal strengths before World Cup meeting

The Group I encounter will echo the 2002 edition in South Korea, where both teams were paired in the opening group stage match. In that game, Senegal stunned the reigning champions France with a notable 1-0 win.

The Lions of Teranga will make their fourth appearance on the global stage, having secured qualification in 2002, 2018, 2022, and 2026. Their finest outcome came during their debut tournament in 2002, when they advanced to the quarter-finals.

Senegal possess 'everything'

“Senegal is among the top sides in Africa and the world. To be included in that group, you obviously have everything in terms of quality,” said Deschamps.

“They have players with considerable attacking threat, and a midfield that operates very, very effectively.”

Deschamps also pointed out the Lions of Teranga’s defensive resilience, along with their athletic and technical attributes.

“The defensive side, too, was highly effective in the previous competition with the AFCON, featuring a strong physical presence. But it is not only that; there are also many players who bring notable technical skill,” explained Deschamps.

“We know what to expect, and they know what to expect too. It will be a contest, a high-level encounter for the opening match.”

Deschamps added: “It is important to win the first match of a competition, but it is not decisive. Starting with a victory in a group of four teams is the best possible outcome, and that is always the aim when approaching your first match.

“The approach to the event has not changed because, regardless of the opponent, it is important.

“On paper, and based on what Senegal achieved during the last AFCON, they are a very, very high-level opponent, but there is the same attention and the same respect as with our first opponents in the last World Cups.”

During the 2002 campaign in South Korea, Senegal followed their victory over France with draws against Denmark and Uruguay to progress to the knockout stages.

Senegal defeated Sweden 2-1 in the round of 16 via a golden goal before falling to Turkey 1-0 in the quarter-finals. Senegal will face France again, aiming to repeat their 2002 performance.

France not seeking revenge

“It is part of history. I watched the match, but almost all of my players were not even born in 2002. I know you have this famous word ‘revenge,’ but for me, there is no such thing as revenge in football, and it happened 24 years ago,” explained Deschamps.

“Good for Senegal for what happened in 2002, but now there is a new chapter to write. Today we are going to do everything we can to make sure the result goes our way.”

Deschamps continued: “I do not even remember the 2002 Senegal team. They must have been strong since they beat France, who had a very, very good team.

“What interests me is tomorrow (Tuesday's match). Having watched several Senegal matches, I can say they are a very good team with very good players. I do not like it when people talk about generations, and even less when they are pitted against each other.

“The 2002 team did what was necessary, much to Senegal's delight. But today, we are facing a very good Senegal team, one that has all the qualities required for top-level football.”

Apart from France, Senegal will also face Norway on June 22nd at New York New Jersey Stadium before concluding their group stage matches against Iraq at Toronto Stadium on June 26th.