🇸🇳SenegalWest Africa
Pape Thiaw selects Kalidou Koulibaly for Senegal's starting lineup against Belgium
via SeneNews5 min read
Kalidou Koulibaly will return to Senegal's starting lineup for their match against Belgium, a strategic decision made by coach Pape Thiaw. Koulibaly's experience and leadership are considered crucial to strengthen the Lions' defense against a formidable opponent. His return is not a gamble but a deliberate choice, emphasizing the importance of the match and the need for a robust defensive foundation. Facing Belgium's strong offense, the Senegalese staff opted for Koulibaly to anchor the defensive line. His presence is expected to immediately rebalance the team, providing stability through his natural leadership, ability to read plays, and mastery in duels. Koulibaly's influence extends beyond defensive execution; he communicates constantly and organizes the team's structure. Coach Thiaw prioritized experience and solidity for this high-stakes encounter, confirming Koulibaly's selection despite physical management considerations. This decision highlights the team's reliance on key players during critical competitive moments. While younger, more dynamic players are emerging, Koulibaly's extensive experience in major international events offers a level of assurance that few other defenders in the current squad can provide. His ability to manage critical moments, guide, calm, and reposition the team ensures the Senegalese block maintains cohesion under intense pressure.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Belgian sports journalist Marc Delire has caused a stir in Belgium by expressing his support for Senegal ahead of their World Cup round of 16 match against Belgium. Delire, who owns a second home in Cap Skirring, Senegal, told La Dernière Heure newspaper that he hopes the Lions of Teranga qualify. He stated that a Senegalese victory would bring "infinitely greater, almost miraculous happiness" to the Senegalese people than a Belgian success would bring to their own population. These comments were widely discussed on Stéphane Pauwels' show on LesNews24, where consultant Benjamin Vasseur called them "scandalous." Many Belgian internet users and observers have criticized Delire for a perceived lack of patriotism, arguing he should prioritize supporting the Red Devils. Some also challenged his reasoning, noting that Belgium has never won a major international trophy, unlike Senegal, which is a two-time African champion. The controversy adds another layer to the highly anticipated match between the two teams, with the winner advancing to the World Cup quarter-finals.
Must ReadMorocco secured qualification for the round of 16 after a tense match against the Netherlands, which they won in a penalty shootout. The Atlas Lions equalized in the final moments of regular time thanks to Issa Diop, leading to a 1-1 draw before their victory in the shootout. Diop's goal sparked significant reaction on social media, with the phrase "saved by a Senegalese" becoming prominent, referencing the defender's origins. Comments ranged from sports analysis and irony to discussions about identity. While some messages expressed fraternity and congratulations, others were more polarizing. Examples include users like Sam🇸🇳 stating, "Moroccans thanked Senegal," and Rachid Ait Aallaoui emphasizing brotherhood in Islam. Conversely, some users like Hoche Quentin and Sofianov posted more contentious remarks, leading to calls for more respectful discourse. Despite the varied social media reactions, the central sporting event was Morocco's dramatic comeback and qualification.
Must ReadYaya Sangaré, former Minister of Communication and ex-government spokesperson for Mali, passed away on Monday, June 29, 2026, after a brief illness. The news was reported by the public daily L'Essor. Sangaré was an influential member of Adema-PASJ, the party founded by former President Alpha Oumar Konaré, and a prominent figure in Malian politics. He served as a Member of Parliament from 2007 to 2018. In 2018, he was appointed Minister of African Integration and Malians Abroad. In 2019, he became Minister of Communication, responsible for Relations with Institutions, and also served as government spokesperson under the presidency of Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta. His death has evoked strong emotion in Mali, with many tributes honoring his commitment to public life and state institutions.