Jules Koundé on France's World Cup opener against African champions Senegal
via SeneNews2 min read
With less than two weeks until their 2026 World Cup debut, the French national team is diligently preparing for their first match against Senegal. During a press conference, Jules Koundé emphasized the significance of this opening clash against the Lions of Teranga, noting that France will immediately face the reigning African champions. This demonstrates the vigilance of the World Cup runners-up ahead of the highly anticipated duel on June 16 at MetLife Stadium. The match against Senegal, the current African champion, is among the most anticipated for the French team in the tournament. This fixture, scheduled at MetLife Stadium, represents an immediate high-level test for Didier Deschamps' squad, as they face a Senegalese team known for its defensive solidity, physical intensity, and experience in major international competitions. Ahead of this deadline, the French team is continuing its preparation in training camp and will play a friendly match this Thursday, June 4, in Nantes, against Ivory Coast. This opposition was carefully chosen to provide a simulation close to the demands expected in the World Cup, particularly in terms of athleticism and tactics. On the eve of this match, Jules Koundé spoke at a press conference. The French right-back was questioned about the favorite status often attributed to the French team in major international competitions. He refuses to consider this label a decisive factor in the group's approach. Without dwelling on this external pressure,
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Must ReadThe Front for the Defense of Democracy and the Republic FDR issued a statement on June 3, 2026, demanding the exclusion of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko from the National Assembly. The FDR argues that Sonko's return to the assembly is contrary to current regulations, deeming his position "illegal and illegitimate." The coalition asserts that existing laws do not permit him to serve as a deputy while simultaneously holding his current status as Prime Minister. The FDR cites Article LO172 of the Electoral Code, which stipulates that an elected minister who becomes a deputy loses their parliamentary mandate if they do not resign from the government within eight days. The coalition also contends that amendments to the National Assembly's internal rules cannot supersede constitutional and legislative provisions. The FDR views the process allowing Ousmane Sonko's return to the National Assembly as a violation of the Constitution, the Electoral Code, and the parliamentary institution's internal rules. Consequently, the FDR calls for the "illegal act of the Assembly" to be reversed and for the Prime Minister to be removed from the National Assembly. The coalition also urges national stakeholders to mobilize in defense of the Constitution, laws, and institutions of the Republic. This declaration comes amidst ongoing legal and political debate in Senegal regarding Ousmane Sonko's parliamentary status.
Journalist Alexandre Ruiz has weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding the Africa Cup of Nations CAN final between Senegal and Morocco. In a statement to SenePeople, Ruiz affirmed that Senegal remains the legitimate winner of the competition. He stated, "For me, there was a final whistle, a winner, and at the final whistle, the winner is right. Senegal is champion of Africa." Ruiz further emphasized that, in his view, the Lions of Teranga continue to be the benchmark for African football, adding, "To this day, Senegal remains the best team in Africa because they won the Africa Cup of Nations."
Didier Deschamps, coach of the French national team, stated that he has a precise idea of the squad he will field against Senegal for their opening match of the 2026 World Cup. The match is scheduled for June 16. Despite having a team in mind, Deschamps acknowledged that internal competition and potential developments before the tournament could still influence his final selections. The French team is currently undergoing preparations and will play two friendly matches, against Ivory Coast and Northern Ireland, before facing Senegal. Deschamps noted that while players are eager to start, the coaching staff is attentive to managing any frustrations that may arise from selection decisions. The France versus Senegal match is anticipated to be a significant fixture in the first round of the World Cup.
Fiorentina midfielder Cher Ndour, 21, has reaffirmed his connection to Senegal, stating he will support the country in the 2026 World Cup, despite choosing to represent Italy internationally. Ndour, who has had a notable season with Fiorentina, scoring seven goals and providing three assists in 47 appearances across all competitions, was previously considered by the Senegalese national team under former coach Aliou Cissé. He recently received his first call-up to the Italian national team and may debut in upcoming friendly matches against Luxembourg and Greece. Ndour, who trained at Benfica, Paris Saint-Germain, and Braga, explained his decision to Rai Sport, stating, "My mother is Italian, my father is Senegalese but he has lived in Italy for almost 30 years. My culture is mostly Italian, but I remain linked to Senegal. I have family there and I often go there for holidays. So I will support Senegal in the World Cup, since Italy will unfortunately not be present." This statement highlights his strong ties to his Senegalese roots while embracing his international career choice with Italy.