The opening round of Senegal’s League Cup produced an early upset as Casa Sports were beaten 1-0 at the Aline Sitoé Diatta Stadium by Ligue 2 side Essamaye FC.
The competition resumed on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, with the first fixtures immediately disrupting expectations in the southern derby.
Considered favourites, Casa Sports were undone by a disciplined Essamaye performance that secured all three points and early control of Group A.
The result left Essamaye alone at the top of the standings after the 0-0 draw between AS Kaffrine and Guelewaars.
Power: Momentum — Thiès FC and AJEL take initiative
In Group D, Thiès FC claimed a notable 2-1 away victory against Linguère de Saint-Louis, a result that pushed them to the top of the group.
The outcome proved decisive after Ndiambour and AS Bambey shared the points in a 1-1 draw.
Group E also produced a clear early leader.
AJEL de Rufisque made a strong start at home, beating ASC Port Autonome 2-0 to take provisional first place ahead of the meeting between US Ouakam and Génération Foot scheduled for Thursday.
Power: Anticipation — Defending champions enter competition
Group B began with a stalemate as Sonacos and AS Saloum drew 0-0, leaving the group wide open after the first matchday.
The tournament, reserved for U20 teams with the option of including three senior players, continues on Thursday, 19 February.
Reigning champions Wally Daan begin their title defence against Amitié FC at the Stade Maniang Soumaré.
Other fixtures include Guédiawaye FC against AS Pikine and Dakar SC facing Diambars FC.
With only the top two teams from each group progressing, the single-elimination format leaves little margin for error as the competition moves toward the round of 16.
Senegal League Cup, Casa Sports, Essamaye FC, Wally Daan, Senegal football, youth football competition
