馃嚫馃嚦SenegalWest Africa
Senegal's World Cup knockout stage opponent uncertain despite qualification
via SeneNews1 min read
Senegal has officially qualified for the World Cup knockout stage after a 5-0 victory over Iraq and Egypt's draw with Iran. While many projections suggest a match against England in the next round, this scenario is unlikely. A Senegal vs. England match would only occur if the Democratic Republic of Congo fails to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. The Democratic Republic of Congo has a strong chance to qualify, facing Uzbekistan, considered one of the easier teams in the group stage. A win for the Democratic Republic of Congo would alter the final bracket, with them potentially playing England, and Senegal facing a different opponent. In that case, Senegal would have a three-in-four chance of playing the winner of Group K, which will be decided between Colombia and Portugal. The fourth possibility would see Senegal play Belgium, currently leading Group G.
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.
Following their qualification for the 2026 World Cup round of sixteen, the Senegal national team, known as the Lions of Teranga, will resume training immediately under coach Pape Thiaw. This decision aims to maintain the team's momentum ahead of a crucial upcoming match. Despite playing Iraq on Friday evening, winning 5-0, coach Thiaw has opted for immediate training. The Senegalese internationals are scheduled for a training session at 5 PM local time. This choice reflects a desire to keep the team dynamic and maximize preparation time, especially given the uncertainty of their next match date. If Senegal faces England in the round of sixteen, the game could be as early as July 1, leaving little time for recovery and preparation. The technical staff intends to use the schedule effectively by avoiding a long break. With several players still seeking their best physical and competitive rhythm, Pape Thiaw aims to maintain training intensity while managing player recovery.
Must ReadThe Central African Republic's Minister of Health, Dr. Pierre Somse, officially declared a cholera epidemic on June 26, 2026. This declaration follows the confirmation of 197 cases and 24 deaths in the Bimbo and Mba茂ki districts. The country is also facing the threat of Ebola virus disease, further complicating its health situation. Authorities have implemented barrier measures and launched awareness campaigns to limit the spread of cholera, an acute infection caused by consuming contaminated water or food. This is the fifth cholera epidemic recorded in the history of the Central African Republic, with the previous one occurring in 2016. The government is calling for a general mobilization of health services, partners, and the population to quickly contain the spread of this potentially fatal disease.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed his enthusiasm for Senegal's qualification for the 2026 World Cup round of sixteen. Following a group stage that included a 5-0 victory against Iraq, Senegal secured its spot in the next round. Mayor Mamdani reacted on his X account, posting "S茅n茅gal rek," a Wolof expression meaning "Nothing but Senegal" or "Senegal above all," commonly used by supporters. This message resonated with New York's significant Senegalese community and was widely shared by Senegalese internet users.