Senegal confident of World Cup impact despite visa setback for travelling supporters

The secretary general of the Senegalese Football Federation has expressed confidence that the national team can make a strong impression at this year’s World Cup, even as the country grapples with the absence of its travelling supporters due to visa restrictions imposed by United States authorities.

Speaking to AFP, Abdoulaye Sow described the situation as “regrettable”, noting that tight immigration rules from the co-host nation have prevented many Senegalese fans from making the journey to support the Lions of Teranga.

Senegal are among several participating nations whose supporters have been unable to attend matches in the United States, where stringent entry requirements have significantly limited fan travel.

“It is true that this World Cup is particularly difficult, but you know every country is a sovereign power and has its own rules,” Abdoulaye Sow told AFP at the Senegal team base, an hour south of Manhattan.

“The United States has its own laws and regulations and these laws mean that – unlike European countries for example – we are not able to benefit from the support of many Senegalese people, and many African people, who wanted to come.

“It is really regrettable. FIFA knew about all this. These are the laws of the United States and we have to respect them.”

Despite the setback, Senegal remain focused on their fourth World Cup appearance, as they look to build on their growing reputation on the global stage.

This year’s tournament is the first time the West African nation has entered without an official fan group funded by the government to travel and support the team.

On the pitch, Senegal begin their campaign against France on Tuesday in New Jersey, a high-profile opening fixture that will set the tone for their Group campaign. They are also scheduled to face Norway on June 22, with both matches taking place in the United States.

While the absence of supporters is expected to be felt in the stands, the federation insists it will not affect the team’s ambitions.

Senegal arrive with expectations of progressing deep into the tournament, buoyed by recent international experience and a squad regarded as one of Africa’s strongest.

As the Lions of Teranga prepare for their opening challenge, the message from within their camp is clear: external circumstances may have changed, but their intent to compete at the highest level remains firmly intact.