Senegal World Cup squad confirmed as Moustapha Mbow and Ilay Camara miss final cut

Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has revealed the 26 players who will represent the Lions at the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to speculation surrounding the final composition of the squad and confirming the omission of defenders Moustapha Mbow and Ilay Camara.

The two players had initially been included in Senegal’s preliminary 28 man squad but were ultimately left out of the final selection announced during the night of 2 June.

Their exclusion means they will not travel with the team for the tournament, ending their hopes of securing a place in the final group.

Mbow and Camara’s absence follows Senegal’s recent friendly against the United States, a match that proved decisive in the final evaluation process.

While both players had hoped to convince the coaching staff of their value, they were unable to retain their places as Thiaw trimmed his squad to meet FIFA’s requirements.

One of the most notable inclusions is 18 year old midfielder Bara Sapoko Ndiaye. The youngster, who is part of Bayern Munich’s youth system, has earned a place in Senegal’s World Cup squad for the first time and represents one of the biggest surprises in the final selection.

The squad continues to be built around a strong group of experienced internationals. Captain Kalidou Koulibaly, whose fitness had raised concerns in recent weeks, has been included and is expected to play a leading role during the tournament.

He is joined by several established members of the national team, including goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, defender Moussa Niakhaté, midfielders Idrissa Gana Gueye and Pape Gueye, and Senegal star Sadio Mané.

Thiaw’s final squad reflects a balance between experience and youth as Senegal prepare for another appearance on football’s biggest stage.

While trusted leaders remain at the heart of the team, emerging talents have also been given opportunities to strengthen the group.

The Lions will now focus fully on their preparations for the tournament as they seek to meet the high expectations of supporters and deliver a strong performance at the 2026 World Cup.

Senegal’s 26 Man World Cup Squad

Goalkeepers

Edouard Mendy
Mory Diaw
Yehvann Diouf

Defenders

Kalidou Koulibaly
Moussa Niakhaté
Abdou Diallo
Formose Mendy
Ismail Jakobs
El Hadji Malick Diouf
Antoine Mendy
Krépin Diatta

Midfielders

Idrissa Gana Gueye
Pape Matar Sarr
Pape Gueye
Lamine Camara
Habib Diarra
Sheikh Niasse
Bara Sapoko Ndiaye

Attackers

Sadio Mané
Nicolas Jackson
Ismaïla Sarr
Boulaye Dia
Iliman Ndiaye
Chérif Ndiaye
Abdallah Sima
Pathé Ciss