2026 WCQ: Senegal make late squad change as Boulaye Dia ruled out 

The Senegalese Football Federation has confirmed that Lazio striker Boulaye Dia will miss the national team’s upcoming World Cup qualifier against South Sudan due to injury.

The 28-year-old forward has been forced to withdraw from Pape Thiaw’s squad and will not travel with the team to Juba, where the Lions of Teranga are set to play on Friday in the ninth round of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

In response to Dia’s absence, coach Thiaw has recalled Habib Diallo of Metz, marking the striker’s return to the national team for the first time since March.

Diallo’s inclusion adds valuable experience and depth to the attack as Senegal seek to secure early qualification for the finals.

The reigning African champions currently lead Group B with a two-point advantage over the Democratic Republic of Congo.

A victory against South Sudan, combined with a defeat for the Leopards in their match against Togo, would guarantee Senegal an unassailable lead and a place at the 2026 World Cup in North America.

Under captain Kalidou Koulibaly, Senegal have maintained a strong position throughout the qualifying campaign.

Should they confirm qualification in Juba, their final fixture—against Mauritania on 14 October at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Dakar—would be played with little pressure.

Senegal’s previous meeting with South Sudan ended in a commanding 4-0 win in November 2023.

Sadio Mané struck twice, while Lamine Camara and Pape Matar Sarr also found the net, with the latter opening the scoring in the very first minute.

The Lions were made to work harder in their June 2024 encounter with Mauritania, edging a narrow 1-0 victory thanks to a decisive goal from Diallo.

His recall now offers Thiaw another proven goalscorer ahead of a potentially decisive away fixture.

The absence of Boulaye Dia, however, will be a blow for Senegal.

The Lazio striker has been a consistent performer for club and country, known for his movement and ability to finish under pressure.

The federation confirmed that medical staff will continue to monitor his recovery, though no timeline has been set for his return.

Despite this setback, confidence remains high within the Senegalese camp as the Lions look to maintain their dominance in Group B and take another step toward securing their third consecutive appearance at a World Cup finals.