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Senegal seeks World Cup upset against France ahead of match

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 8:09 PM

Last updated Jun 15, 2026

Senegal seeks World Cup upset against France ahead of match

Summary

Senegal faces France in a Group I match on June 16 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This meeting echoes their iconic 2002 World Cup encounter, where Senegal pulled off a 1-0 upset against the defending champions. France, looking to advance to their third consecutive World Cup final, has emphasized focus over past rivalries. Both teams acknowledge the historical significance of their matchup, with six current French players not yet born during the 2002 event. Senegal's coach Pape Thiaw, referencing the late Bruno Metsu, aims to instill strength from their prior triumph against France. Fan turnout is anticipated despite some visa issues for Senegal supporters, according to Thiaw.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•France currently ranks third in the world.
•Senegal ranks 16th and is the 2022 Africa Cup champion.
•Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. EDT.
•France coach Didier Deschamps aims for a record coaching feat.
•Senegal's supporters are expected to fill the stands despite visa challenges.

Latest Updates

8:09 PMYahoo Sports — Senegal looks to repeat 2002 World Cup upset of France that set off dancing in Dakar's streets

What they're saying

"
France's last World Cup match against Senegal set off dancing in the streets of Dakar. Les Bleus were the defending champions when the Lions of Teranga's 1-0 upset win in the 2002 opener caused Senegal President Abdoulaye Wade to declare a national holiday. “Not for revenge do we want to win, but we want to go as far as possible in this competition,” France midfielder N’Golo Kanté said through a translator on Monday, a day before Les Bleus and Senegal meet in Group I.
— Yahoo Sportsby RONALD BLUM

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