World Cup 2026: Didier Deschamps rejects revenge narrative ahead of France’s reunion with Senegal

France coach Didier Deschamps has dismissed suggestions that his side are seeking revenge when they face Senegal in a highly anticipated Group I clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The fixture inevitably evokes memories of one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history. Back in 2002, tournament debutants Senegal stunned reigning world champions France 1-0 in Seoul thanks to Papa Bouba Diop’s famous winner. The result sent shockwaves through world football and ultimately contributed to France’s shock group-stage elimination.

However, Deschamps insists that defeat belongs firmly in the past.

“I know people like to use the word ‘revenge’ but there is no revenge in football,” the France boss said ahead of Tuesday’s encounter.

“That was 24 years ago, and we have another page to write now.

“What happened in 2002, congratulations to Senegal, it was good for them then, but we’ll make sure the result will be positive for us this time.”

Deschamps, who captained France to World Cup glory in 1998 and later guided Les Bleus to the title as coach in 2018, pointed out that most of his current squad have little connection to the events of 2002.

“It was history, even N’Golo, I’m not sure he watched the game. Many of my players weren’t born in 2002. I was watching, of course, but I wasn’t there.”

While refusing to focus on the past, Deschamps was full of praise for a Senegal side widely regarded as one of Africa’s strongest footballing nations. The Teranga Lions have become regular World Cup participants and have established themselves among the continent’s elite over the past two decades.

“On paper, you can see what Senegal did during the last AFCON, and they have a very high level of player, of team,” Deschamps said.

“Senegal are one of the best African countries, one of the best teams in the world, so we know what to expect in this game.

“They have everything, excellent players at top clubs, great attacking quality, an outstanding midfield.”

The French coach also highlighted Senegal’s athleticism and technical ability, warning that his players face a stern test in their tournament opener.

“They will know what to expect as well, and it will be a duel – a high-level duel – a proper confrontation for the first game.”

France enter the match as one of the favourites to win the tournament, but Deschamps made it clear that Senegal command his full respect. As Les Bleus prepare for their first meeting with the Teranga Lions since that famous night in Seoul, the French manager is focused on the present rather than settling old scores.