On the eve of the clash between Senegal and Belgium in the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup, Bouna Sarr expressed his confidence in the Lions. Present on Tuesday at a press conference with FC Metz, where he just extended his contract for two more seasons, the Senegalese defender shared his analysis of the national team’s journey. While he admits that Pape Bouna Thiaw’s men faced a tough group stage, the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations champion believes Senegal has what it takes to turn the tables on Belgium and continue their adventure in the tournament.
Senegal will face the Red Devils on Wednesday night at 8 PM GMT in Seattle, in a crucial match. Qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams, the Lions had to fight hard to secure their spot in the knockout stages. After losing to France (3-1) and then Norway (3-2), they finally clinched their qualification with a decisive win against Iraq. Their journey hasn’t been perfect, but it still allows them to dream of a global upset.
When asked about the Senegalese team’s performances, Bouna Sarr acknowledged that the first matches weren’t easy. However, he emphasized that the context was particularly demanding, facing top-level opponents. For the former Bayern Munich player, this qualification is a source of satisfaction and can serve as a springboard for a new momentum in the tournament.
“The positive thing is that they managed to get through the group stage. It was a bit tough in the first matches, but we must remember they didn’t play against small teams. They faced big nations. A new competition is starting,” explained the 34-year-old right-back, who has 13 caps with the Lions. In his view, the knockout matches completely change the dynamics and give Senegal a real opportunity to showcase their best side.
Bouna Sarr believes this qualification can mentally free Pape Bouna Thiaw’s players. After overcoming the challenges of the group stage, the Lions now approach a match where every detail will matter. The experience of several key players, combined with the talent of the younger generation, is, according to him, an important asset to compete with a Belgian team known for its technical quality and international experience.
The FC Metz defender does not hide his ambition to see Senegal continue its journey in this World Cup. Even though he acknowledges the qualities of the opponent, he refuses to see Belgium as an insurmountable obstacle. For him, the Lions have the tools needed to pull off a surprise and secure a spot in the quarter-finals.
“It’s a new competition that starts”: Bouna Sarr sends a message to the Lions before the match against Belgium https://t.co/ZSIsgA8BxF pic.twitter.com/0rBefRtF6c
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“We hope they will get a good result against Belgium and go as far as possible. Belgium is a great team, but Senegal has its chances. In terms of level, they have the ability to progress,” concluded Bouna Sarr. A message of confidence that strengthens the hopes of Senegalese supporters ahead of this decisive match, where the Lions will try to write a new chapter in their history on the world stage.
