Edouard Mendy will not participate in the match against Belgium, scheduled for this Wednesday at 20:00 GMT, as part of the knockout stage. This information was confirmed in a press conference by coach Pape Thiaw on Tuesday, ending the suspense about the availability of the Senegalese goalkeeper. The Lions’ staff opted for caution, as the keeper does not yet have the physical guarantees needed to play in a high-intensity match.
The Senegalese goalkeeper had to leave the camp to return to his club for further examinations to accurately assess the nature of his injury. This medical step provided a clearer understanding of his physical situation, but the conclusions did not allow for an immediate return to competition. Despite his importance in the Lions’ setup, the technical staff preferred to avoid any risk in a context where every detail counts.
Pape Thiaw provided details on the management of the player’s medical situation and his evolution within the group.
“Edouard Mendy went back to his club because they needed to assess his injury. He will rejoin us this evening (Tuesday). For now, he is with the group, he will be with us for this match against Belgium, even if he won’t be fit. We want to see him back. So we need to seek victory to hope he can be available for the rest of the competition.”
This situation forces the Senegalese staff to reorganize their choices in goal for this crucial appointment. Even though Belgium is a top-level opponent, the Lions will have to adapt without their usual last line of defense. The technical staff remains optimistic about a possible return of the goalkeeper if the team manages to continue its journey in the competition.
Pape Thiaw: “Edouard Mendy will not be able to play against Belgium, but he is back with the group.” pic.twitter.com/Yv3zmP5Iae
— RTS SENEGAL (@RTS1_Senegal) July 1, 2026
In this context, the goal remains unchanged for the Lions: to achieve a positive result to extend their adventure and hope to recover one of their key players for the upcoming challenges. The management of Mendy’s case also illustrates the caution adopted by the staff, keen to preserve the physical integrity of their players while maintaining sporting ambition intact in this decisive phase.
