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Senegal: The official lineup of the Lions is out

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Senegal: The official lineup of the Lions is out

For their opening match at the 2026 World Cup, Senegal’s coach, Pape Thiaw, has set a starting eleven clearly focused on experience and continuity. Facing France this Tuesday evening at MetLife Stadium in New York (19:00 GMT), the Lions of Teranga are fielding several established players along with some strong choices in every area of the pitch. The goal is to combine defensive solidity, control in midfield, and efficiency in the final third for this highly anticipated clash.

In defense, the hierarchy has been respected with captain Kalidou Koulibaly starting over young Mamadou Sarr. He forms the central pairing with Moussa Niakhaté. On the flanks, Krépin Diatta is expected on the right, while the left side is entrusted to El Hadji Malick Diouf, who has been preferred to Ismaïl Jakobs. This choice reflects a desire to balance offensive projection with defensive rigor against the speed of the French attackers.

Senegal: the official lineup of the Lions has been announced

In midfield, concerns about Idrissa Gana Gueye’s physical condition have been put to rest. The 36-year-old veteran is starting and will bring his experience to the midfield. He is joined by Lamine Camara, who has been preferred to Habib Diarra, and Pape Gueye. This trio must ensure balance between recovery, projection, and ball circulation, with special attention to managing the pace against a top-level opponent.

In attack, Senegal is banking on an experienced and complementary offensive trio.

Ismaïla Sarr will occupy one wing, while Nicolas Jackson will be positioned up front. On the other side, Sadio Mané completes this attacking setup, bringing his experience and ability to make a difference in big matches. This trio is tasked with taking advantage of any openings against a solid French defense.

The probable lineup for Senegal is shaping up like this: Édouard Mendy – Diatta, Niakhaté, Koulibaly, Diouf (or Jakobs) – Camara, Gana Gueye, Pape Gueye – Sarr, Jackson, Mané. This eleven reflects a sought-after balance between defensive stability, midfield density, and attacking speed. A choice that shows the Lions’ ambition to fully seize their chance in this first major test of the tournament.