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Philadelphia stadium gates open for France-Iraq World Cup match after storm alert
via SeneNews1 min read
The gates of the Philadelphia stadium, where France and Iraq are scheduled to play today, have opened following the end of a storm alert. This decision was made two and a half hours before the kickoff of the World Cup 2026 group stage match, according to a source close to FIFA. Organizers had initially delayed opening the stadium to the public due to an imminent storm, in accordance with US regulations. These regulations stipulate that any outdoor event can be delayed by at least 30 minutes if lightning is detected within a 13 km radius. Heavy downpours affected Philadelphia three hours before the France-Iraq match, which is scheduled for 5:00 PM local time 11:00 PM Paris time. A message on the Lincoln Financial Field's giant screens warned of an approaching severe storm and advised spectators to seek shelter within the stadium. The announcer also called for everyone on or near the field to evacuate. Despite the current clearance, the weather forecast still predicts a storm at the match's kickoff. Having defeated Senegal 3-1 in their opening match, France can secure their spot in the round of 16 with a win against Iraq.
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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.