2026 World Cup: Senegal’s complete journey

A look back at Senegal’s path through the 2026 World Cup, from their group stage battles to their heart-breaking elimination against Belgium.

Drawn in Group I alongside France, Norway, and Iraq, the Lions of Teranga endured a rocky start to the tournament before mounting a comeback on the final matchday. A resounding win saw Pape Thiaw and his men finish third with 3 points, securing their ticket to the knockout phase as one of the best third-placed teams in the competition.

France 3 - 1 Senegal (Mbappé 66', 90'+6, Barcola 82'; Mbaye 90'+5)
Norway 3 - 2 Senegal (Pedersen 43', Haaland 48' and 58'; Sarr 53' and 90'+3)
Senegal 5 - 0 Iraq (Diarra 4', Sarr 56', Gueye 59' and 71', Ndiaye 82')

Also read: Algeria – Where will Riyad Mahrez play next season?

Eliminated in the final minute of extra time

This qualification earned Senegal a spot in the round of 32, a stage they had never reached in this format. Their adventure came to a dramatic end in the dying seconds of extra time, in a match that defied belief:

Belgium 3 - 2 Senegal a.e.t. (Lukaku 86', Tielemans 89' and 120'+5 pen; Diarra 25', Sarr 51')

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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