Speaker of Senegal’s National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko, has expressed confidence that the Teranga Lions can defeat France in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while arguing that the encounter carries a broader political and symbolic meaning beyond football.
Speaking during an interview with RFI and France 24 ahead of Tuesday’s Group I fixture, Sonko said he hopes Senegal will emerge victorious but insisted that whichever side wins, Africa would ultimately come out on top because of the strong African heritage represented within the French squad.
“I think Senegal will win. At least, that’s my hope, like every Senegalese person,” Sonko said.
“In any case, it’s only a football match. But if you want to look at the match politically, then whoever wins, Africa will have beaten Africa.”
The remarks have generated discussion across African football and political circles as anticipation builds for one of the most high-profile fixtures involving an African nation at the tournament.
Sonko argued that the composition of the French national team demonstrates the continent’s contribution to global talent and highlights Africa’s strategic importance in world affairs.
According to him, many Africans underestimate the continent’s value despite its vast natural resources, youthful population and growing economic significance.
“The message I always give to Africans is that if we understand our own value and embrace it — we have natural resources, we have human resources, we have a rapidly growing and overwhelmingly young population and we have a strategic position — then I believe the balance of needs is not where people often think it is,” he said.
The Senegalese parliamentary leader added that the realities reflected in international football should also shape conversations around migration and the broader relationship between African nations and Western countries.
For Senegal, the match also carries historical significance.
The West African nation famously stunned defending champions France 1-0 in the opening game of the 2002 FIFA World Cup, a result that remains one of the greatest upsets in tournament history and a defining moment in African football.
Tuesday’s clash offers Senegal another opportunity to make a statement against one of football’s traditional heavyweights.
Sonko’s comments come at a politically significant period in Senegal following his transition from prime minister to Speaker of the National Assembly, a role that has kept him at the centre of national affairs.
As football fans across Africa await kickoff, his message seeks to frame the contest as more than a sporting rivalry — one that showcases Africa’s influence, talent and growing place in global affairs.
