2026 World Cup: Daniel Riolo tears into the Lions after defeat to France
Sénégal stumbled in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup. Beaten 3-1 by France in their first group game, the Lions of Teranga left a mixed impression. Beyond the scoreline, it was the performance that drew heavy criticism, both in Senegal and abroad. Among the harshest observers was French journalist Daniel Riolo, who didn’t hold back in his analysis of Pape Thiaw’s men. He believes the Senegalese team completely missed the mark against a French side that was far from irresistible.
Speaking on the show After Foot on RMC Sport, Daniel Riolo expressed his disappointment with the Lions’ performance.
The pundit pointed out a team he deemed too passive, lacking a real game plan or the will to take initiative. For him, Senegal seemed to be on the back foot, rather than trying to impose their style of play. He questioned the players’ true intentions during the match, noting that no clear strategy emerged. Riolo particularly lamented the lack of aggression, desire, and creativity in their game, qualities that had made Senegal strong in recent international competitions.
The French journalist also focused on several individual players. Regarding Sadio Mané, he felt this match confirmed the current struggles of the Senegalese forward. According to him, the former Liverpool player no longer has the impact that once defined his reputation at the highest level. Daniel Riolo also discussed Kalidou Koulibaly, who started in central defense. The Lions’ captain appeared physically challenged during several moments of the match, which did not go unnoticed by the French observer. In midfield, Lamine Camara and Pape Gueye were also singled out. Riolo believes both players failed to make an impact on the game or provide the necessary control in the midfield.
This media appearance reflects the disappointment surrounding Senegal’s performance. There were high hopes for this generation, seen as one of the most talented in Senegalese football history. After several years marked by encouraging results on the continental and international stage, fans expected to see their team compete with the best nations in the world. However, against France, the Lions rarely gave the impression they could turn the match around. Defensive errors, lack of rhythm, and absence of offensive solutions fueled criticism and questions about the game plan set by the coaching staff.
🚨🚨 2026 WORLD CUP: THE BACKSTAGE OF THE SENEGAL LIONS CAUSES CONTROVERSY 🇸🇳:
▫️Player bonuses have still not been paid despite revenues from CAN 2025 and World Cup qualification.
▫️Several players are reportedly unhappy with the conditions… pic.twitter.com/Yebxy8XnrT
— Foot Mercato (@footmercato) June 19, 2026
Senegal doesn’t have time to dwell on this poor performance. On Monday, Pape Thiaw’s men will face a crucial match against Norway. The Scandinavians come into this game full of confidence after their resounding 4-1 victory over Iraq, which put them at the top of the group. Led by several in-form players, Norway poses a formidable challenge for the Lions, who are now under pressure. Another defeat would seriously jeopardize Senegal’s chances of qualifying for the knockout stage. Sadio Mané and his teammates must show a completely different face and respond on the pitch to the mounting criticism since their setback against the Blues.
