Senegal receive warm welcome in Kinshasa ahead of crucial World Cup Qualifier

Senegal arrived in Kinshasa on Sunday evening to a rousing reception from supporters, as the Teranga Lions prepare for a decisive clash against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

The squad touched down at Ndjili International Airport at 21:00 (UTC+1), only 48 hours before their crucial Group fixture.

The African champions travel in high spirits after securing a 2-0 victory over Sudan in their previous qualifying encounter, a result that reinforced their position as one of the continent’s strongest contenders for a place at the global tournament.

An electrifying reception

The Senegalese players, led by star forward Sadio Mané, were greeted by an exuberant crowd of Senegalese expatriates living in Kinshasa.

Supporters waved flags, sang national chants, and created an atmosphere described by local media as “worthy of a major competition.”

The warm welcome underlined the immense support Senegal continues to enjoy across the continent.

For players and coaching staff alike, the reception provided a morale boost ahead of what is expected to be one of their most demanding fixtures in this qualification campaign.

High stakes in Kinshasa

Tuesday’s match against DR Congo has been billed as one of the standout contests of this round.

The Congolese, known for their physicality and passionate home support, will be eager to unsettle Senegal’s rhythm and disrupt their qualification momentum.

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw will be well aware of the challenge posed in Kinshasa, where visiting teams often face hostile atmospheres.

Nevertheless, the Lions have established themselves as one of Africa’s most consistent sides in recent years, blending experience and individual talent with collective discipline.

Confidence from recent form

Senegal’s win over Sudan showcased their ability to manage high-pressure games with efficiency.

Goals from Mané and Habib Diallo underlined the team’s attacking depth, while the defence delivered a composed display that reflected their growing stability at the back.

Arriving in Kinshasa with such momentum, the Teranga Lions are keen to translate that form into another decisive performance.

A victory against DR Congo would not only consolidate their place near the top of the group but also send a clear message about their determination to reach the 2026 finals in North America.

Support that transcends borders

The scenes at Ndjili Airport highlighted the unifying power of football among Senegalese communities abroad.

Many travelled long distances within the Democratic Republic of Congo to welcome their national team, underscoring the pride and expectation that follow the Lions wherever they play.

For the players, such displays of loyalty and passion serve as additional motivation.

Speaking briefly after arrival, senior squad members acknowledged the significance of the welcome, stressing their determination to repay supporters with a strong performance on the pitch.

Looking ahead

As the countdown continues to Tuesday’s showdown, Senegal’s focus will be on fine-tuning preparations and adapting to the demanding conditions in Kinshasa.

The contest promises intensity, with both teams desperate to strengthen their qualification hopes.

For Senegal, the journey to the World Cup is as much about maintaining consistency as it is about handling the pressure of marquee fixtures.

If the atmosphere that greeted them in Kinshasa is any indication, the Teranga Lions will step onto the pitch knowing that their nation — both at home and abroad — stands firmly behind them.