World Cup 2026: Senegal squad trimmed ahead of trip to Canada

Visa rejections sideline key team members

Africa 24 June 2026 at 17:12

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World Cup 2026: Senegal squad trimmed ahead of trip to Canada

26.06.26 FT World Cup

Senegal

Iraq

A fresh blow for the "Teranga Lions." Just days before their Friday clash with Iraq, the Senegalese national team faces an unexpected off-pitch hurdle: several delegation members have been denied entry visas for Canada.

Among those stranded are the team photographer and digital communications manager—both pivotal figures in the squad's communications setup. In addition, a number of Senegalese Football Federation executive committee members remain stuck in the United States.

Some officials from the Senegalese Football Federation are stranded due to not obtaining Canadian visas.

The visa process for travel to Canada has turned into a genuine headache. Several executive committee members of the Senegalese Football Federation, who were slated to accompany the squad... pic.twitter.com/7x79v39OBa
— FD MEDIA (@Feuz_Feuz) June 24, 2026

For the record, the squad departed Wednesday evening at 19:00 GMT, bound for Toronto. The "Lions" are set to face Iraq on Friday at 19:00 GMT. Victory in this match is crucial to reignite hopes of advancing to the World Cup round of 16.

Amidst underwhelming results on the pitch and persistent logistical headaches, Pape Thiaw and Senegal are enduring a World Cup campaign that seems to shift with each passing day.