Kalidou Koulibaly has conveyed a powerful message as Senegal prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, emphasizing that the team’s goal is to improve upon the successes of the nation’s revered 2002 generation. The captain of the Teranga Lions asserts that the current squad possesses the capability to compete at the highest levels and aims for a significant impact in the tournament.
In an interview with AfterRMC, Koulibaly articulated the team’s lofty ambitions, stating that merely participating in the World Cup is insufficient for Senegal. He underscored the intent to surpass previous achievements.
“Senegal is the best team in the world today. We want to do better than our predecessors; reaching the quarterfinals is our minimum target,” he told AfterRMC.
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Senegal’s most notable World Cup accomplishment occurred in 2002, when the team made headlines by reaching the quarterfinals during their debut. Notably, they triumphed over defending champions France in their opening match, launching an extraordinary journey in the competition.
The Teranga Lions are set to commence their 2026 World Cup campaign against France on June 16 at MetLife Stadium. Following this, they will face Norway, concluding their group-stage matches against Iraq.