Belgium – Senegal: Kalidou Koulibaly says he’s ready for the showdown and leaves the choice to Pape Thiaw
On the eve of the Round of 16 match in the 2026 World Cup against Belgium, set for Wednesday at 8 PM, Kalidou Koulibaly reassured Senegalese fans about his health. The captain of the Lions claims he has fully regained his physical form after several tough weeks. Now, the Al-Hilal defender says he is completely available to defend Senegal’s colors in this crucial encounter, while leaving it up to coach Pape Thiaw to decide if he will start or not.
Asked about a possible starting position, the former Napoli and Chelsea player didn’t try to influence the coaching staff’s decision. He emphasized that the most important thing is to be ready to step up for the team, no matter the role. “That’s up to the coach to decide. But the most important thing is that I am fit and available for the group, available for the team,” said the Lions’ captain, showing his calm ahead of this vital match.
Having been held back by physical issues for a long time, Kalidou Koulibaly explained that he worked hard to regain his best form before the tournament started. He highlighted the importance of the work done with the medical and technical staff, both with the national team and at his Saudi club, Al-Hilal. According to him, this collaboration allowed him to approach this World Cup in the best possible conditions despite the challenges faced in recent months.
“I worked hard to be ready for this World Cup. I want to thank all the medical and technical staff because they trusted me. I also thank the Al-Hilal staff, who helped me a lot. Today, I am here, available for my country. I am very happy to represent Senegal at this World Cup,” he shared emotionally, emphasizing his attachment to the national jersey and his determination to help the Lions continue their journey.
Now, it remains to be seen if Pape Thiaw will choose to reintegrate his captain into the starting eleven. In the first two matches of the tournament against France and Norway, Koulibaly was in the lineup before being left on the bench during the resounding 5-0 victory against Iraq. That match marked Senegal’s most solid defensive performance since the tournament began, naturally fueling the debate around the team composition for this Round of 16 clash.
Kalidou Koulibaly: “I am fit and available for the group, available for the team” pic.twitter.com/DCqmEKRFaM
— Pa Latyr Diouf (@yaxandiou) June 30, 2026
Despite the competition, the 35-year-old defender has complete confidence in his teammates and the coaching staff. For him, the goal remains collective. “I am available and the coach will make his choices, without pressure. The team that starts will do everything to win the match. I think we have nothing to prove to anyone. Everyone saw it, we won the AFCON on the field. Today, people talk more about us and maybe they’re starting to feel a bit of fear regarding Senegal. But it’s still a football match. We will do everything to put on a good show and have a great match,” concluded the Lions’ captain, determined to see Senegal continue their World Cup adventure.
