Senegal will face a defining challenge in their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they travel to Kinshasa to take on the Democratic Republic of Congo on 6 September, in what could be a decisive fixture in Group B.
With DR Congo currently topping the group on 13 points, just one ahead of Senegal and South Sudan, the stakes could not be higher.
As the qualifiers enter their eighth matchday, the pressure is mounting on Pape Thiaw’s side, who have no margin for error in a group where the top three are separated by a single point.
Former Senegal international Souleymane Diawara has weighed in on the significance of the upcoming clash, stressing the mental resilience required to succeed in high-pressure fixtures such as this.
Speaking to local media, Diawara emphasised that beyond tactics and technical ability, it is sheer willpower that will determine the outcome in Kinshasa.
“I hope Senegal comes out on top,” he said. “It will be a tough match, no doubt about that. DR Congo has been very impressive recently.
They’ve got a strong, well-organised squad. But for Senegal, this is a must-win. If we win, we go ahead of them. If not, our chances become very slim. That makes this match absolutely crucial.”
Senegal will first host South Sudan in Dakar before making the trip to Kinshasa. Both fixtures will be pivotal in determining whether the Lions of Teranga can book a direct spot at the 2026 World Cup.
Any slip-up could have serious consequences in what has become one of the tightest groups in the African qualifying campaign.
Reflecting on what it will take for the Lions to prevail, Diawara was unequivocal: mental strength will be the difference.
“There’s no secret formula here,” he continued. “At this level, the deciding factor is always mental strength.
The team that wants it the most, that shows the greatest desire and determination, will win. Of course, there are tactical elements to fine-tune, but on the day, it’s all about who’s mentally ready to push beyond their limits.”
The last meeting between the two teams ended in a tense 1-1 draw in Dakar. Ismaila Sarr had put Senegal in front, only for DR Congo’s Fiston Mayelé to equalise in the 85th minute, snatching a valuable point for the visitors.
That result has kept the group on a knife-edge and adds further tension to the return leg.
Diawara, a former Olympique de Marseille defender and a respected figure in Senegalese football, also urged the players to seize the moment and rise to the occasion.
His comments reflect the growing awareness within Senegal’s football community of just how vital this match could be in shaping the national team’s path to the global stage.
With only one automatic qualification spot available in each group, the margin for error is razor-thin. As the countdown to the September showdown begins, all eyes will be on Thiaw’s squad and whether they can summon the strength — both physical and psychological — to overcome a formidable Congolese side on their home turf.
