World Cup 2026: Senegal without key player ahead of Belgium showdown

Senegal have suffered a significant setback ahead of their Round of 32 encounter against Belgium at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after goalkeeper Edouard Mendy was officially ruled out of the match through injury.

The Lions of Teranga will take on Belgium on Wednesday evening, but they will do so without their experienced first-choice goalkeeper after coach Pape Thiaw confirmed Mendy’s absence during his pre-match press conference.

Pape Thiaw Confirms Mendy Absence

Speaking to the media before the knockout clash, Thiaw addressed concerns surrounding Mendy’s fitness after the Al Ahli goalkeeper sustained a knee injury earlier in the tournament.

The Senegal coach revealed that the shot-stopper would not be available for selection against Belgium.

“Edouard Mendy will not be with us. Even if he is not fit to play, he will be part of the team,” Thiaw said.

“We hope to win so that he can join us for the rest of the tournament. Mory (Diaw) had an excellent game against Iraq and kept a clean sheet.”

He added: “We hope that the same thing will happen again on Wednesday.”

Injury Suffered Against Norway

Mendy picked up the injury during Senegal’s match against Norway after suffering a problem with his left knee.

The goalkeeper was forced off in the 63rd minute and replaced by Mory Diaw, who stepped in to help Senegal secure the result.

Diaw is now expected to start against Belgium as Senegal aim to keep their World Cup campaign alive and reach the next stage of the competition.

Senegal Face Crucial Test Against Belgium

The absence of Mendy represents a major challenge for Senegal heading into one of their biggest matches of the tournament.

However, the Lions of Teranga will hope the squad can overcome the setback and deliver another strong performance as they battle Belgium for a place in the next round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.