The Lions of Teranga wrapped up their World Cup preparations on a bittersweet note, finishing their final international friendly without a victory. Senegal played to a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday night, just days before the World Cup begins on June 11.
After the match, Senegal’s manager Pape Thiaw provided a candid reflection on the team’s performance. While expressing concern over the squad’s lack of attacking efficiency, he commended the defensive strength demonstrated by the Lions. “We are in the midst of our preparations. We weren’t clinical up front, but we didn’t concede a goal. That’s a positive,” he stated.
Looking ahead to their opening World Cup match against France on June 16, Thiaw acknowledged the formidable strengths of Didier Deschamps’ team. However, he reassured that his squad would be prepared to compete. “We are up against the top-ranked team in the FIFA rankings, with impressive strengths. But we have our own qualities too, and we will do everything we can to be ready,” he added.
Senegal is positioned in Group I, where they will also face Norway and Iraq during the group stage of the tournament.