2026 WCQ: Ismaïl Jakobs faces late fitness test ahead of Senegal’s clash with Mauritania

Ismaïl Jakobs is a major doubt for Senegal’s decisive 2026 World Cup qualifier against Mauritania after suffering discomfort in his knee, head coach Pape Thiaw confirmed on Monday.

The Galatasaray defender, named in Thiaw’s 26-man squad for the October international window, only joined the camp on Saturday after his club delayed his release.

Although he took part in light individual work on Sunday, Jakobs was again kept apart from the main group during Monday’s training session in Diamniadio.

At his pre-match press conference, Thiaw offered an update on the player’s condition, revealing that the medical team would determine whether he would be fit to feature.

Jakobs has knee pain. He trained separately from the squad, and we will wait for the doctors’ advice to know what happens, Thiaw said.

The news comes as Senegal prepare for a crucial encounter that could seal their direct qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Lions of Teranga top Group B, two points clear of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and need just one more victory to secure their place at the tournament.

Jakobs’ potential absence could force Thiaw into a defensive reshuffle, with the manager already having to manage other minor fitness concerns within the squad.

The 24-year-old full-back, who has been a key figure on the left flank, offers both defensive assurance and attacking width — qualities that could be missed if he is ruled out.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Jakobs, the atmosphere in the Senegalese camp remains focused and optimistic.

The squad have been training at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium, where they will host Mauritania in front of an expected full house.

Mauritania, already eliminated from World Cup contention, will approach the match without pressure but with pride at stake, particularly for players born in Senegal such as Babacar Niass and Pape Ndiaga Yade.

Senegal, meanwhile, cannot afford any slip-ups, with the stakes too high for complacency.

For now, all eyes remain on the medical team’s assessment of Jakobs’ condition.

A final decision on his availability is expected shortly before kick-off on Tuesday evening.