World Cup 2026: Koulibaly takes responsibility after Senegal’s defeat terrible defeat to Norway

Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly has openly admitted responsibility following the Lions of Teranga’s 3-2 defeat to Norway in their second Group stage match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The loss marked Senegal’s second consecutive defeat in the tournament after their opening 3-1 loss to France, leaving the team in a difficult position heading into the final group stage match.

Koulibaly, who faced criticism for defensive errors during the game, acknowledged that his performance fell below expectations.

“Football is decided by details” — Koulibaly reflects on defeat

Speaking in comments published by Senegalese outlet SeneNews, Koulibaly stressed the fine margins that determine matches at the highest level.

“It can be said that we wasted some of the opportunities available to us, and football at the highest level is decided by details, and the team that makes fewer mistakes is the one that wins,” he said.

The Senegal captain also admitted personal fault for the result.

“I think I made a lot of mistakes today, and that’s very unfortunate. Losing in this way in the World Cup is very painful because we don’t have the luxury of making mistakes in matches like these.”

Senegal’s reaction not enough despite improved second half

Despite the defeat, Koulibaly praised his team’s response after the break, insisting there were signs of fight and determination.

He explained that the team showed mental strength in the second half and tried to recover from a difficult situation, but ultimately fell short of achieving the desired result.

“On a mental level, the team responded well. There was a real desire to get back into the game, and we recovered some of our energy, but we didn’t manage to achieve the result we wanted,” he said.

Substitution decision and squad dynamics addressed

Koulibaly also commented on his second half substitution, a decision that sparked discussion within Senegalese football circles.

He dismissed any suggestion of guaranteed places in the national team, stressing that team selection is solely the coach’s responsibility.

“No one has a guaranteed place in the national team. If the coach decides to replace me, it’s because he sees that I’m not helping the team as required, and that’s perfectly normal,” he stated.

Injury concern for Edouard Mendy adds to Senegal worries

The Senegal captain also addressed concerns surrounding goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, who picked up a knee issue during the match.

He noted that Mendy experienced discomfort in the medial collateral ligament and that further medical tests will determine the severity of the injury and possible recovery time.

Senegal still believe despite difficult situation

Despite back to back defeats, Koulibaly insisted that Senegal are not giving up on their World Cup hopes.

He stressed that the team must fight until the end and remain committed to their final group stage match in order to keep their qualification hopes alive.

“We still believe in our chances, otherwise everyone should go back to Senegal. We must win the last match and fight until the end,” he said.

Koulibaly concluded by expressing confidence that the team can respond in their final group match against Iraq, despite growing criticism following their defeats to France and Norway.