Senegal have confirmed their return to competitive action with friendlies against Peru and Gambia in March, marking the Africa Cup of Nations champions’ first fixtures since their dramatic victory over Morocco in last month’s final.
The Senegalese Football Federation announced that the Lions of Teranga will face Peru at the Stade de France on 28 March before hosting Gambia at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Diamniadio on 31 March, as preparations intensify for the 2026 World Cup.
Senegal are scheduled to open their World Cup campaign against France on 16 June at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, in what promises to be a highly anticipated encounter in Group Nine of the expanded tournament.
AFCON triumph provides momentum
The reigning African champions secured their second continental title with a 1-0 victory over hosts Morocco in January, ending a month-long period of national celebration.
The triumph in front of Moroccan supporters represented a significant achievement for the West African nation.
Following the AFCON success, attention has now shifted towards the World Cup, where Senegal will compete in a challenging group also featuring Norway, led by striker Erling Haaland, and the winner of the continental playoff between Bolivia, Suriname and Iraq.
Preparation schedule announced
The federation’s official statement confirmed the March fixtures as the beginning of Senegal’s World Cup preparation programme.
The match against Peru at France’s national stadium will provide an opportunity to test themselves against South American opposition in a European setting.
The subsequent fixture against regional rivals Gambia will take place on home soil at the recently constructed Abdoulaye Wade Stadium, offering supporters the chance to celebrate the team following their AFCON success whilst maintaining competitive preparations.
According to Senegalese media reports, the preparation programme may include an additional friendly fixture against the United States on 31 May in Charlotte, North Carolina, though this has not been officially confirmed by the federation.
World Cup group presents challenges
Senegal’s World Cup group presents significant challenges, with France representing formidable opposition in the opening fixture.
The match will mark a reunion between the two nations, with France having eliminated Senegal at the quarter-final stage of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Norway, featuring Manchester City striker Haaland, will provide another stern test for the African champions. The Scandinavian nation qualified for the expanded 48-team tournament and will be seeking to progress beyond the group stage.
The group’s fourth team remains to be determined through the continental playoff system, with Bolivia, Suriname and Iraq competing for the final qualification spot.
This uncertainty means Senegal’s coaching staff must prepare for multiple potential opponents.
With four months remaining until their World Cup opener, Senegal’s confirmed fixtures against Peru and Gambia represent the beginning of crucial preparations as the African champions seek to build upon their continental success and make a significant impact at the global tournament in North America.
