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This content was machine-translated from the French version.
The 2026 World Cup, to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, marks a historic turning point for African football. With its expanded format to 48 teams, the tournament opens up unprecedented opportunities for long-established nations such as Senegal, which has been competing for 65 years and whose national team, the Atlas Lions, has enjoyed some memorable moments. However, recent revelations, published by local media, are raising questions about the state of the Senegalese team’s preparations as the qualifying campaign intensifies. Whilst Senegal has established itself as a leading force in Africa, notably thanks to strong performances in the Africa Cup of Nations, structural challenges remain, undermining its ambitions for the 2026 World Cup.
Senegal, which has taken part in several World Cups, notably in 2002, 2018 and 2022, is going through a period of transition. The country’s political and economic upheavals have impacted investment in football, a key pillar of national identity. Local clubs, despite their popularity, suffer from a lack of facilities and logistical difficulties, which in turn affects the development of young talent. Recent reports highlight that some academies, once highly productive, are struggling to maintain their standards, raising doubts about the rise of future generations. Furthermore, the exodus of talented players to more lucrative European leagues is weakening the national team’s squad depth, forcing the coaches to cope with constant rotation.
Senegal, which has taken part in several World Cups, notably in 2002, 2018 and 2022, is going through a period of transition.
The format of the 2026 World Cup, with 32 groups of four teams, offers Senegal a better chance of qualifying, but requires rigorous planning. African teams, which have historically relied on the Africa Cup of Nations for World Cup qualification, must now adapt to a more packed schedule. Qualifying matches, often marked by high national stakes, are likely to test the resilience of the Senegalese national team, especially if key players are forced to choose between their professional careers and their commitment to the national side. Investment in sports infrastructure, a cornerstone of Senegal’s ambitions, appears to have been sidelined, leaving openings for regional rivals such as Morocco or Egypt.
The Senegalese authorities, whilst aware of what is at stake, will need to align their priorities to strengthen the development of national football. These revelations, whilst critical, also highlight the importance of a long-term vision, in which the development of young players and the stability of local structures become strategic levers. Senegal, with its talent pool and footballing culture, remains a credible contender for the 2026 World Cup. However, success will depend on its ability to turn these challenges into opportunities, before the tournament’s 104 matches mark an inevitable turning point in its history.
