FIFA WC 2026: A rematch with France, Pape Thiaw reacts for Senegal

In the mixed zone after the 2026 World Cup draw that will see Senegal face France, Norway and a yet to be determined team in Group I, Pape Thiaw showed enthusiasm, while respecting the opponents.

“It’s always a pleasure to play against France. It’s a country we know well. For me, it’s my second country. 24 years later, we are playing against them again. But we know that it won’t be an easy match. In 2002, it had succeeded for us. Everything that is historical is fine, but after the D-day it will not be present on the ground. We know the French team, we see them all the time and our players rub shoulders a little bit. It’s going to be a special match and let’s hope that as in 2022 we will win it,"

 the Teranga Lions coach said on RMC Sport.

Pape Thiaw then recalled that Senegal remains focused for the moment on the 2025 CAN they want to win in Morocco:

 "We are in a difficult group with very good teams like Norway and others who play the play-offs. We are waiting to know them. But before that, we have an important competition, the AFCON. We will prepare it well. These are two different competitions. We care about the AFCON, it’s our continent’s competition. We want to win it,"

 he admitted.

Senegal’s 2026 World Cup program
Tuesday, June 16, 2026

19:00 GMT: France vs Senegal - New York (USA)

Tuesday 23 June 2026

00h GMT: Norway vs Senegal - New York (USA)

Friday 26 June 2026

19:00 GMT: Senegal vs barragiste - Toronto (Canada)