🇸🇳SenegalWest Africa
Luis Fernandez warns France about Senegal ahead of 2026 World Cup opener
via SeneNews1 min read
Former French international Luis Fernandez has cautioned the French national team about Senegal ahead of their 2026 World Cup opening match on June 16. Fernandez, a consultant for beIN SPORTS and a 1984 European champion with France, believes the Senegalese team possesses the qualities to cause an upset. He highlighted the potential and determination of the Lions of Teranga, considering them formidable opponents in the group stage. Fernandez noted that Senegal is an African nation that has consistently shown potential and motivation. The former Paris Saint-Germain coach also emphasized the added motivation of Senegalese players, many of whom play or have played in the French league, which intensifies their desire to perform well against France. He openly expressed his concern, stating, "Yes, yes, I am afraid of the Senegal team. I say it openly. Senegal can certainly be a team that can surprise." This statement underscores the respect the Lions command internationally. Against a French team led by Kylian Mbappé, Pape Thiaw's squad will aim to confirm their status as ambitious underdogs in the 2026 World Cup.
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Must ReadSenegal is experiencing a political situation that draws parallels to the institutional crisis of December 1962, which paralyzed the young Republic. The current scenario involves a fragmentation of popular legitimacy between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who secured 54% in the presidential election, and Ousmane Sonko, whose party achieved an absolute majority in the National Assembly. This division has led to accusations of betrayal, not against individuals, but against the nature of this shared mandate. The article suggests that the political maneuvering, characterized by resignations and tactical repositioning driven by internal party dynamics rather than national interest, is creating a sense of déjà vu. The author describes the situation as a cyclical tragedy where ego conflicts harm the populace, who are left as spectators to their own struggles after elevating leaders to power. The true betrayal, according to the text, lies in a political structuralism that exploits popular fervor for electoral gain, only to then close off opportunities to the very people whose aspirations remain unfulfilled.
Must ReadThe Dakar High Court has adjourned the hearing in the case between Mame Mbaye Niang and Ousmane Sonko to July 22, 2026. This postponement was granted at the request of the lawyers for the President of the National Assembly. Ousmane Sonko's legal counsel sought additional time to prepare their response to the conclusions filed in the proceedings. The case originated from an action initiated by Mame Mbaye Niang, who accuses Ousmane Sonko of transferring his house in Cité Keur Gorgui to family members to avoid paying a debt estimated at 200 million CFA francs. Believing this property transfer was fraudulent, Mame Mbaye Niang petitioned the court to annul it. Through this procedure, he seeks to have the property reinstated into Ousmane Sonko's assets to allow for the recovery of the debt he claims, if applicable. The case will return before the Dakar High Court on July 22, 2026, for the continuation of discussions.
Iraq, a future opponent for Senegal in the 2026 World Cup, suffered a 2-0 defeat against Venezuela in their final preparation match held in Chicago. Despite strong support from their fans, the Iraqi team struggled to find its rhythm before the competition. Venezuela quickly took the lead in the 17th minute with a goal from Cristian Cásseres, following a corner and a poor clearance by goalkeeper Jalāl Hassan. Early in the second half, Jesús Ramírez extended Venezuela's lead in the 46th minute with a powerful left-footed shot after a defensive error, beating substitute goalkeeper Ahmad Basil. Iraq finished the match with 10 players after forward Ali Yousif was sent off in the 72nd minute for a foul on the Venezuelan goalkeeper, a decision that was heavily contested by the Iraqi side. The Lions of Mesopotamia had previously drawn 1-1 with reigning European champions Spain in their prior preparation match on June 4. Iraq is placed in Group I of the World Cup, alongside Norway, their first opponent on June 16, France, and Senegal.