Senegal coach Thiaw shuns AFCON drama, eyes World Cup upset vs France June 17
Senegal coach Pape Thiaw insists his team's focus is solely on their 2026 World Cup opener against France on Tuesday, June 17 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, dismissing lingering distractions from January's controversial Africa Cup of Nations final. Thiaw states they've prepared well and won't revisit the AFCON fallout where Senegal were stripped of the title after a player walk-off protest, with the CAS appeal still pending.
The Lions of Teranga enter the match with full squad availability, including returning star Sadio Mané (34) after missing 2022 through injury and fit captain Kalidou Koulibaly despite earlier back concerns. Thiaw, who was an unused substitute in Senegal's historic 1-0 win over defending champions France at the 2002 World Cup, expresses confidence: "It would not be a surprise if we beat a France team with world-class players," noting their African championship status and third straight World Cup qualification.
For African football fans watching from Nigeria and beyond, this match represents more than just a group stage game—it's a chance to recreate continental glory. Will Senegal's preparation and mental focus overcome the AFCON controversy to deliver another iconic World Cup moment against France?