Pape Thiaw claims Senegal are ambitious and ready for France challenge in World Cup opener
This Group I encounter is a rerun of the 2002 tournament in South Korea, where the teams met in their first group match. Senegal famously stunned the reigning champions France with a 1-0 win.
This marks the Lions of Teranga's fourth appearance at the global finals, having qualified in 2002, 2018, 2022 and 2026. Their finest achievement came on their first outing in 2002, when they advanced to the quarter-finals.
Across their World Cup history, the West Africans have a record of five wins, three draws and four defeats from 12 matches. In the 2002 campaign, after beating France, Senegal drew with Denmark and Uruguay to progress to the knockout stage.
They beat Sweden 2-1 in the last 16 courtesy of a golden goal, then lost 1-0 to Turkey in the quarter-finals. Senegal now meet France once more, hoping to emulate their 2002 feat.
Ambition without arrogance for Senegal
“We are up against France, but this tournament is not only about France. There are other tough games, especially against Norway and Iraq. It would not be a shock if Senegal beat France,” Thiaw said to journalists before the match.
“We possess world-class talent and are the African champions. We have secured World Cup qualification for three consecutive editions and have reached the final in three of the last four AFCON tournaments. We have earned our status.
“We can take on any side. Modestly, we are very ambitious but not arrogant. We are capable of beating any opponent, but we can also be beaten by anyone if we do not perform correctly. We are prepared to begin this tournament strongly, which is always beneficial.”
Thiaw continued: “The Senegal side at the AFCON is slightly different from the one that featured in our two warm-up games.
“However, as I have always stated, even when we have beaten strong sides, friendlies are for preparation. We also had players who were short of game time.
“Consequently, we were focused on bringing everyone to match fitness. Tomorrow (Tuesday), I believe we will witness the true Senegal.”
Koulibaly fit for Senegal
Senegal entered the World Cup with uncertainty over defender Kalidou Koulibaly's availability, as he missed the final round of the Saudi Pro League with Al Hilal.
Regarding this, Thiaw confirmed that the Lions of Teranga skipper is fit and ready to lead the side, as is Idrissa Gueye, who sat out the last two training sessions at the residential camp.
“I have my entire squad available. Kalidou Koulibaly returned for the last match against Saudi Arabia,” offered Thiaw. “All the players are in good condition, and it is up to my staff and me to decide.”
Thiaw concluded: “The warm-up games have been beneficial. We understand we are about to face a strong side; it will be a tough match, but we are ready. France has world-class individuals, but so do we.
“We count on our team spirit and hope to see the right response tomorrow (Tuesday). The game against France carries symbolism; it means a great deal, but we will keep it in a sporting perspective as we aim for the win and progress in this World Cup.”
In addition to France, Senegal will take on Norway on 22 June at the New York New Jersey Stadium and conclude their group stage with a match against Iraq at Toronto Stadium on 26 June.