🇸🇳SenegalWest Africa
France reveals starting lineup for World Cup 2026 match against Iraq
via SeneNews4 min read
France has announced its starting eleven for the World Cup 2026 group stage match against Iraq. Coach Didier Deschamps has selected Mike Maignan in goal, with a defense comprising Jules Koundé, Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba, and Lucas Digne. The midfield will feature Manu Koné and Adrien Rabiot. The offensive lineup includes Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, and Bradley Barcola, playing behind captain Kylian Mbappé. This match is France's second group game, following their 3-1 victory over Senegal. Iraq was defeated by Norway in their first match.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has expressed his condolences following the death of Mouhamadou Aïssata Ba, the Khalife of Guet Ardo. In a public message, the head of state stated he learned of the religious leader's passing with emotion. He extended his sympathies to the Khadre community, the people of Guet Ardo, and the entire Islamic Ummah. President Faye honored the memory of Mouhamadou Aïssata Ba, describing him as a religious man who dedicated his long life to serving the faith. He also offered prayers for the repose of his soul. The Khalife of Guet Ardo, located in the Department of Louga, passed away on Monday at his residence in Guet Ardo at approximately 95 years of age.
Ahead of the decisive World Cup 2026 match between Senegal and Norway, former coach Amara Traoré urged the Lions to react positively after their defeat against France. Traoré, who witnessed Senegal's victory over Norway in 2006, highlighted the evolution of both teams and the crucial stakes of the upcoming clash. Senegal will play Norway on Tuesday, June 23, in a pivotal match. Having lost their opening game 3-1 to France, the Lions of Teranga must now react to maintain their qualification hopes. Traoré believes the current squad, led by coach Pape Thiaw, has the capability to bounce back if they address the shortcomings observed in their first World Cup match. He noted that Norway has significantly changed since 2006, now boasting a talented generation including Erling Haaland, and playing with more power and physicality. Despite the challenge, Traoré is confident that Senegal can secure a positive result against Norway and then face Iraq in what he calls a "final." He also addressed defensive weaknesses, particularly concerning Kalidou Koulibaly and Krépin Diatta, who are returning from injury and may lack match fitness. Traoré emphasized the need for better communication between the bench and players, suggesting that substitutions should be made if players are fatigued. While acknowledging criticisms of Kalidou Koulibaly and Idrissa Gana Guèye, he believes their performance against France will prepare them for future matches. Regarding Ibrahim Mbaye, who performed well as
Fifty Senegalese agricultural workers, comprising 29 women and 21 men, have departed from Dakar for Spain as part of the 2026 circular migration program. This initiative, supported by both countries' authorities, aims to facilitate professional, safe, regular, and supervised migration. The departure took place at Blaise Diagne International Airport, attended by El Hadji Abdoul Karim Cissé, director of Senegalese Abroad, and his team. Cissé emphasized the importance of workers adhering to their contractual obligations, including returning to Senegal after their mission, to ensure the program's sustainability and expansion. He also announced plans to support the creation of an association for circular migrants to help them access economic projects and housing solutions. Cissé urged the workers to act as ambassadors for Senegal and thanked the Kingdom of Spain for providing this opportunity for Senegalese youth, which offers alternatives for safe, regular, and orderly migration. The Directorate of Senegalese Abroad indicated that additional groups of workers are expected to travel to Spain in the coming weeks, strengthening cooperation between the two nations in managing migratory flows.