World Cup 2026: N’Golo Kanté warns France over Senegal’s midfield strength

France midfielder N’Golo Kanté has underlined the quality of Senegal ahead of the two nations’ opening match at the 2026 World Cup, warning that the Lions of Teranga possess strengths across the pitch, particularly in midfield.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday before France’s first match of the tournament, Kanté offered a measured assessment of Senegal while expressing confidence in his own team’s ability to begin the competition positively.

The experienced midfielder, who appeared before the media in place of France captain Kylian Mbappé, acknowledged the challenge awaiting the French side against one of Africa’s leading football nations.

“I have Malian roots, but I’ve represented France for a long time. The goal is to win against Senegal. We saw what happened in 2002.

We want a victory today, not for revenge, but to get the competition off to a good start and go as far as possible. Senegal has a lot of quality, especially their midfield, which was good in the last competition.

They also have a good attack and a good defense. We’ll have to take them seriously, but I think we have what it takes to win.”

Kanté’s comments come as France prepare to face a Senegal side carrying strong expectations into the tournament. The fixture also revives memories of the teams’ famous meeting at the 2002 World Cup, when Senegal stunned the defending champions in one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history.

While Kanté made clear that France’s focus is firmly on securing three points, he rejected the notion that the match carries any sense of revenge.

Instead, he stressed the importance of making a strong start to the campaign and building momentum for the remainder of the competition.

The French midfielder paid particular attention to Senegal’s midfield unit, identifying it as one of the team’s key strengths. However, he also highlighted the overall balance of the African side, noting that their qualities extend beyond the centre of the pitch.

France enter the match with ambitions of progressing deep into the tournament, but Kanté’s remarks suggest there is no danger of underestimating their opponents.

By recognising Senegal’s strengths while backing France’s chances of victory, the midfielder struck a balance between respect and confidence ahead of a highly anticipated Group-stage encounter.

With both teams aiming to open their World Cup campaign on a positive note, the clash promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the opening round, as France look to overcome a talented Senegal side that continues to command respect on the international stage.