Senegal\u2019s decision to schedule its upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifier against Togo for a late evening kickoff has triggered frustration among fans, with concerns over transportation and stadium attendance taking center stage.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Supporters express frustration over late kickoff<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) recently confirmed the dates and venues for the national team\u2019s next two qualifiers\u2014an away fixture against Sudan and a home match against Togo.<\/p>\n

While both games are crucial for Senegal\u2019s campaign, it is the timing of the Togo match that has drawn criticism.<\/p>\n

Set to take place at 9 p.m. local time at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Diamniadio, the scheduling has sparked widespread discontent among fans.<\/p>\n

The stadium, located approximately 35 kilometers from Dakar, poses logistical challenges, particularly in terms of post-match transportation.<\/p>\n

With the game expected to conclude around 11 p.m., supporters fear heavy traffic congestion on the main roads leading back to the capital, especially on a weekday when many will have work commitments the following morning.<\/p>\n

FSF justifies decision amid Ramadan considerations<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Responding to the backlash, FSF executive committee member Ousmane Thiane Sarr defended the decision, citing the need to accommodate players observing Ramadan.<\/p>\n

The priority is to preserve the physical integrity of the players.<\/p>\n

By scheduling the match at this hour, we allow them to break their fast before kickoff, ensuring they are in the best condition to deliver a strong performance,” he explained in an interview with Wiwsport<\/em>.<\/p>\n

While acknowledging the fans’ concerns, Sarr suggested that the scheduling was made with the squad\u2019s best interests in mind.<\/p>\n

Our main goal is to secure a positive result, and this timing supports that objective,” he added.<\/p>\n

Concerns over stadium attendance and financial implications<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Beyond the transport challenges, there are fears that the late timing could further impact attendance at the 50,000-seat stadium.<\/p>\n

Sarr admitted that filling the venue has been a persistent issue since Senegal\u2019s high-profile World Cup playoff against Egypt in 2022.<\/p>\n

It has been a long time since we had a packed stadium for a national team match.<\/p>\n

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Coupe du monde 2026 (Q) : le S\u00e9n\u00e9gal annonce la date du choc contre le Soudan #football<\/a> https:\/\/t.co\/8bUivbV1Jj<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/0OtUNMBy0w<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 Afrik-Foot (@afrikfoot) March 2, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n