World Cup 2026: Lamine Camara believes Senegal can create new history against France

Senegal midfielder Lamine Camara says his team can challenge France and create their own memorable moment when the two nations meet in their opening Group I match at the 2026 World Cup.

The 22-year-old midfielder recognises the quality of the French squad but believes Senegal have enough talent and confidence to compete against one of the tournament favourites.

France’s reputation and the history between the two nations are impossible to ignore. Senegal’s famous 1-0 victory over the reigning world champions in the opening match of the 2002 World Cup remains one of the greatest moments in the country’s football history.

Camara, like many Senegalese players, grew up hearing stories about that historic achievement. He revealed that former Senegal star El-Hadji Diouf often reminds him of the famous victory.

“Everything I know about that match, El-Hadji Diouf told me about it. He never stops talking to me about it,” the Senegal midfielder said.

The former Lions striker regularly shares memories of his 2002 campaign, when he became one of Senegal’s biggest football icons and won the African Ballon d’Or.

“I told him I won the African Youth Ballon d’Or. Then he said to me, ‘You’re a little Ballon d’Or winner, a baby Ballon d’Or winner. You haven’t had your big moment yet.’”

However, Camara insists Senegal’s current generation should focus on building its own legacy rather than simply repeating past achievements.

“He tells us all his memories of the famous France-Senegal match, but I tell him that since we have the chance to play against France, why not create our own memories? It’s an opportunity to write our own history.”

The AS Monaco midfielder has huge respect for France and their squad, describing the team as one filled with elite players.

“Facing France will be a very big match. We all remember the 2002 encounter.”

“They have a real team with world-class players and it won’t be easy.”

Despite that admiration, Camara believes Senegal should not approach the game with fear.

“We have everything we need in this Senegal team to compete with any team.”

The match also carries personal significance for Camara, who moved to France in 2023 after progressing through FC Metz before joining Monaco. His knowledge of French football means he will face familiar opponents, including Monaco team-mate Maghnes Akliouche.

“I don’t give him any breaks in training,” Camara joked. “When I make a tackle, I tell him, ‘Get ready, this is what awaits you at the World Cup.’ The provocations have already begun.”

Camara’s journey has similarities with Senegal captain Sadio Mané. Both players came through the Génération Foot academy before moving to Metz and developing into top-level footballers.

The young midfielder says Mané has played an important role in guiding him.

“It’s an honor to share a pitch and a locker room with Sadio Mané. He’s a legend for us.”

“He’s always giving me advice. I try to observe his way of life, his work, and how he behaves with others. For us young players, he’s a true role model.”

Having grown up in Diouloulou, Casamance, Camara understands the sacrifices required to reach the highest level.

“Everyone knows that it is very difficult to become a professional footballer in Senegal. It requires enormous sacrifices.”

Now one of Senegal’s brightest young talents, Camara hopes the match against France can become another important chapter in the nation’s football story.

“We respect France and its great players. But we have the opportunity to write our own history.”