Senegal

Senegal, the Lions of Teranga, are one of Africa's powerhouses, blending explosive athleticism with technical quality and star power once led by talisman Sadio Mané. African champions in 2021, Senegal are backed by joyous, drumming support and represent the rising tide of West African football.

Senegal announced themselves on debut in 2002, beating defending champions France in the opening match and storming to the quarterfinals — one of the great World Cup fairy tales — before falling to Turkey on a golden goal. After a 16-year absence, they returned in 2018 and reached the round of 16 in 2022, backed by their 2021 Africa Cup of Nations triumph. Senegal qualified again for 2026 as one of the continent's most respected sides.