As part of their preparation for the 2026 World Cup, the Senegal national team is about to finalize a double friendly match against Saudi Arabia. According to available information, discussions between the parties are well advanced, and an agreement is nearly in place, although the exact dates for the matches have not yet been set.
These two friendly matches are expected to take place in the United States, one of the host countries for the upcoming World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico. This strategic choice aligns with the Senegalese Football Federation’s (FSF) goal of acclimating the Lions to local conditions, both climatic and logistical, just a few months before the tournament kicks off.
Initially, Senegal hoped to organize a prestigious match against Argentina, the reigning world champions. This option was considered for this preparation phase, but the project ultimately fell through, forcing Senegalese officials to revise their schedule for this international window.
A match already confirmed against the host nation
Alongside negotiations with Saudi Arabia, another match is already scheduled. The Lions of Teranga will face the United States in a friendly on May 31, 2026, at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. This clash against the World Cup host represents a major test, both sportingly and symbolically.
However, this match against the Americans is just one part of a broader preparation program, designed to give the Senegalese coach a variety of opponents and playing styles. With just months to go before the World Cup, Senegal is clearly showing its ambition: to increase high-level matches, strengthen collective understanding, assess the depth of their squad, and arrive at the 2026 World Cup in the best possible shape.
