World Cup qualifiers: A heavy blow for the Lions of Teranga ahead of Mauritania clash

14.10.25 FT World Cup Qualification CAF

Senegal

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Star goalkeeper Edouard Mendy will be a notable absentee for the decisive showdown awaiting Senegal against Mauritania in the final round of Group B of the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The official account of the Lions of Teranga announced on Tuesday that the Al-Ahli Jeddah goalkeeper will not feature against the Mourabitounes after suffering a chest injury during the match against South Sudan.

The Senegalese national team issued the following statement:

“Edouard Mendy, who sustained a chest injury in the match against South Sudan, will be absent for the Mauritania game on October 14, 2025. Nevertheless, the Lions’ goalkeeper will remain with the squad to continue his treatment.”

With Mendy sidelined, head coach Pape Thiaw is expected to turn to Le Havre’s 32-year-old shot-stopper Mory Diaw to guard the posts for the Lions tonight at Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Diamniadio.

Senegal’s qualification scenarios for the 2026 World Cup

Senegal will face Mauritania this evening at 19:00 GMT, while direct rivals DR Congo take on Sudan at the same time.

The Lions will secure qualification for the World Cup finals with a victory, but a draw or even a defeat could also be enough if DR Congo stumble against Sudan.

5 things to know about Mouhamed Dabo, Senegalese sensation targeted by Manchester United

Mohamed Rek |

Editorfr, ar, en

Mohamed Rek- sports content writer with over 10 years of experience creating football content in Arabic and French for platforms such as Foot Africa and Starafrica, combining accuracy, creativity, and audience engagement.

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