Senegal’s World Cup 2026 team preview: Players to watch, group, squad list
Summary
Senegal will compete in their third consecutive World Cup in 2026, aiming to build on their strong history since debuting in 2002. Led by captain Sadio Mane in what is likely his final World Cup, the team is considered one of Africa’s strongest and showed their quality by beating England and winning the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).Key Facts
- Senegal first played in the World Cup in 2002 and reached the quarterfinals that year.
- They have qualified for the last three World Cups, including the 2026 tournament.
- Sadio Mane, the team captain and veteran forward, plans to retire from international football after the 2026 World Cup.
- Senegal beat England 3-1 at Wembley in 2025, becoming the first African team to win against the English national team there.
- Coach Pape Thiaw took over in late 2024 and led Senegal to an undefeated qualification and the AFCON 2025 title win before the trophy was stripped due to a controversial protest.
- Mane was named the best player of AFCON 2025 and helped his club Al-Nassr win the Saudi Pro League.
- Senegal’s squad includes experienced players with the most appearances being Kalidou Koulibaly, Youssouf Sabaly, and Ismaila Sarr.
- The team aims to be a strong contender and is ranked 14th in the FIFA world rankings.
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