
Following Canada's 3-0 loss to Morocco in the World Cup 2026 round of 16, coach Jesse Marsch stated that his team was "better" in terms of "quality" and "impact" despite the heavy defeat. Marsch noted that prior to the tournament, reaching the round of 16 would have been considered satisfactory. He also believed that based on his team's performance, they had a good chance of winning the match against Morocco. The Canadian team, who had lost all six of their previous World Cup matches in 1986 and 2022, co-hosted this edition with the United States and Mexico. Marsch emphasized that Canada completely controlled the first half and was more aggressive and dominant at the start of the second half, creating scoring opportunities. He asserted that in terms of overall quality and impact, Canada was the better team. The American coach expressed hope that this World Cup experience would serve as a learning opportunity for future improvements. After the elimination, he challenged his players to understand that they are capable of maintaining such a high level of play consistently. Marsch concluded that the team proved it could compete with the world's best and that the new challenge is to maintain these standards for 90 minutes. He praised the players for their commitment and pride shown to the country.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.

Senegalese goalkeeper Mory Diaw has issued an apology to supporters following the elimination of the Lions of Teranga in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. In an emotional message, Diaw acknowledged his share of responsibility for the team's exit, stating, "I am sorry. Sorry for not being able to take you further." He reflected on his childhood dream of representing Senegal on the global stage and recognized the harsh reality of a goalkeeper's role, where a single action can alter a match's outcome. Despite the disappointment, Diaw emphasized that this elimination should not overshadow the team's efforts and sacrifices. He expressed that the pain will linger but affirmed his unwavering love for the national jersey, promising to return with greater determination. Diaw concluded by thanking Senegalese fans for their support through both victories and defeats, looking forward to future challenges with the Lions.

Five people have died in Togo due to floods caused by heavy rains on June 28 and 29, according to a government statement released on Saturday evening. The Gulf of Guinea experienced particularly intense rainfall at the end of June, marking the beginning of the rainy season, which led to severe flooding in Togo, as well as in C么te d'Ivoire, Ghana, and Nigeria. The provisional toll in Togo includes five deaths, significant material damage, and major traffic disruptions. The floods also "strongly disrupted traffic," with many homes, particularly in the capital Lom茅, inundated. Some households were forced to evacuate and seek refuge with neighbors or relatives. The government stated that rescue operations, assistance to affected populations and communities, and securing at-risk areas are underway, along with support measures for affected families and households, in a spirit of national solidarity. Several political parties and civil society organizations have called on residents in unaffected areas to show solidarity with those impacted. The Dynamique pour la majorit茅 du peuple DMP, a coalition of opposition political parties and civil society organizations, criticized the recurring floods in a statement on July 2, emphasizing the urgent need to rethink urbanization and sanitation policies. Beyond Togo, these heavy rains have also caused fatalities in other countries, with 59 deaths reported in C么te d'Ivoire and twelve in Ghana.

First Lady Absa Faye endorsed the launch of the Impact'Elles association, an initiative aimed at strengthening women's solidarity and leadership. During the first edition, which focused on the mental health of women leaders, she advocated for greater consideration of this issue, deeming it essential for sustainable and inspiring leadership. In a statement released on her social media on July 4, 2026, she emphasized that the association "demonstrates women's desire to grow together, share experiences, and build solidarity networks for their success." The event saw the attendance of prominent government figures, including the Minister of Family, Social Action and Solidarity, and the Minister of Health and Public Hygiene. The First Lady noted that their presence "gave particular resonance to this meeting dedicated to a major issue of our time." The first edition, themed "Mental Health of Women Leaders: A Daily Challenge," highlighted a topic often overlooked. Absa Faye reiterated that "taking care of one's mental health is a priority, an essential condition for exercising sustainable and inspiring leadership." She commended the organizers and speakers for the quality of discussions, the rich panel, and the commitment of all who contributed to making the day a space for reflection, dialogue, and hope. She concluded by wishing longevity for the new association, hoping Impact'Elles would "support many women on the path to leadership and fulfillment."