Moussa Niakhaté reflects on Senegal’s defeat to Brazil ahead of AFCON and World Cup

Senegal’s 0-2 loss to Brazil provided a sobering moment for the team, with defender Moussa Niakhaté speaking candidly about the lessons to be drawn from the friendly encounter.

In the mixed zone following the match, Niakhaté acknowledged the disappointment of seeing Senegal’s unbeaten streak come to an end but stressed the importance of using the defeat as a learning opportunity ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and the 2026 World Cup in the United States.

“We are disappointed because we wanted to win this match and because we didn’t play the match we wanted, Niakhaté said. To face these kinds of teams, you have to be at your best. That wasn’t the case today, but it’s better that it happened now than in a month. We have to learn from this because the most important thing is the AFCON and the World Cup.”

The Lyon defender, who once again delivered a reliable performance at the back, emphasized that Senegal must view high-level friendlies as valuable tests rather than merely results-focused exercises.

Facing a technically superior and tactically astute Brazil side highlighted areas where the Lions need to improve in preparation for major tournaments.

Niakhaté’s remarks underline Senegal’s pragmatic approach to these preparatory fixtures, prioritizing growth and adaptation over short-term outcomes.

The team’s leadership appears focused on ensuring that lessons from this defeat translate into stronger performances in competitive matches.

“The important thing is to absorb the experience and correct our mistakes, Niakhaté added. Matches like this show us where we can improve individually and collectively, and that’s what will help us in the months ahead.”

Despite the loss, Senegal showed glimpses of their characteristic resilience, particularly in defensive organization, although Brazil’s quality in attack proved decisive.

Observers noted that while Senegal struggled to impose their rhythm, players such as Niakhaté provided stability and leadership, which will be crucial for upcoming continental and global challenges.

With the Africa Cup of Nations set to kick off in Morocco later this year and the World Cup in the United States on the horizon, Senegal’s squad will take this setback in stride, using the experience to sharpen their tactical awareness and mental preparedness.

For Niakhaté and his teammates, the focus is firmly on turning this lesson into performance improvements on the biggest stages.

This defeat, though disappointing, may ultimately serve as a critical stepping stone, reinforcing the team’s commitment to progress and adaptation as they aim to compete at the highest levels in the months to come.