Senegal have been viewed as a dark horse to win this summer's World Cup, but the turmoil from this year's Africa Cup of Nations final could affect their campaign. Few nations outside Europe and South America have ever been considered World Cup contenders, and no one from those continents has reached a final. However, after Morocco became the first African country to reach a World Cup semi-final four years ago in Qatar, Senegal aims to match or better that record in North America this summer with a squad featuring stars from Europe's biggest clubs.
Group I Draw and AFCON Fallout
Drawn in Group I alongside France, Norway, and Iraq, the Lions of Teranga are confident of progressing far. Yet they head into the tournament shrouded in uncertainty after January's chaotic Africa Cup of Nations final against hosts Morocco. With the game goalless, Morocco were awarded a contentious penalty in the eighth minute of second-half added time, causing Senegal's players to walk off in protest. When they returned 17 minutes later, Morocco's Brahim Diaz attempted a Panenka, but goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved it. Four minutes into extra time, Pape Gueye scored the winner for Senegal.
However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) later overturned Senegal's victory, awarding Morocco a 3-0 win due to the walk-off. Senegal appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). African football expert Babacar Diarra explained that fans and players consider themselves champions based on what happened on the pitch. They displayed the trophy at the Stade de France in Paris during the March international break, asserting their claim.
Manager Pape Thiaw's Decision
Senegal's walk-off was instigated by manager Pape Thiaw. Diarra noted that apart from in Morocco, Thiaw is well-respected across the continent. Most people feel justice was served when the penalty was missed and Senegal won the final on the pitch. Thiaw was not well-known before the tournament but is now respected.
Senegal's Premier League Stars
Senegal boasts numerous Premier League talents, including former Liverpool star Sadio Mane, ex-Chelsea players Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly, and Everton's Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gana Gueye. This has led many to view them as Africa's best hope. Diarra said the national team has been respected for the last decade, especially after winning AFCON for the first time five years ago. They are now considered the most dominant national team on the continent.
Travel Ban Issues for Fans
While players are exempt from President Donald Trump's partial U.S. travel ban, Senegalese fans face hurdles. Residents may need to present a bond of up to $15,000 (around £11,000) to enter the United States. Diarra expressed concern that fan groups from Senegal may not attend, affecting the atmosphere. The diaspora will come, but the absence of chanting and dancing fans could be felt by the players.
Underdog Status Gone
Senegal's underdog status is a thing of the past. They beat England 3-1 in a friendly last June, and their most famous World Cup win came 24 years ago against defending champions France. Both teams meet again this summer in their opening fixture. Diarra quoted Pape Gueye, who said he wants to win the World Cup. The team is more confident now, playing for top clubs and earning respect. A loss to Brazil before AFCON helped them stay humble. France are worried about Senegal, recalling the trauma of 2002. This Senegal team is vastly different from previous World Cup squads.
