An exciting kickoff awaits as Senegal initiates their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign by hosting South Sudan at Stade Me Abdoulaye Wade this Saturday.
Aliou Cisse’s squad enters Group B as favorites, eyeing their fourth global showpiece appearance but must remain cautious against potential upsets from their opponents.
Match Preview:
The reigning African champions, Senegal, aim to secure maximum points against South Sudan, preventing any stumbling blocks in their quest for the 2026 World Cup.
Despite DR Congo’s presence likely to complicate progress, Senegal, under Cisse, targets the top spot in Group B.
Their campaign commences against South Sudan in Diamniadio, aiming to match DR Congo’s three points after the latter’s 2-0 win over Mauritania.
Historically dominant at home under Cisse, Senegal seeks to continue their formidable run, avoiding a repetition of the goalless draw against Burkina Faso in September 2017. Failure to secure a win could place them in a precarious catch-up position.
South Sudan, considered unlikely contenders for the 2026 finals, nonetheless aim to infuse interest in Group B.
Under new manager Nicolas Dupuis, the Bright Stars seek to challenge favored opponents.
Never having qualified for a World Cup due to competing against more talented nations, South Sudan’s focus remains on competitiveness.
Although perceived as underdogs against Senegal, they strive for a respectable display, hoping to avoid a heavy defeat.
With their sights set on improving, South Sudan’s competitive spirit will be vital, as a lack thereof risks a significant loss, affecting their chances of securing a favorable position among the African section’s best runners-up.
Forms:
Senegal: W-D-W-D-L-W
South Sudan: W-L-L-L-L-W
Team News:
Nicolas Jackson, displaying prowess with four goals in two Chelsea games, might lead Senegal’s attack.
The spotlight remains on Sadio Mane, supported by experienced players like Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, and Edouard Mendy.
South Sudan, post their 4-0 defeat to Mali, could rely on Chol Daniel, who netted two goals in their previous campaigns.
Stalwarts Tito Okello or Ajak Riak might spearhead their attacking force.
Predicted Lineups:
Senegal:(4-3-3)
Mendy;
Fadiga, Diallo, Koulibaly, Jakobs;
Gueye, Mendy, P. Sarr;
I. Sarr, Jackson, Mane
South Sudan:(4-3-2-1)
Mawith;
Lokosang, Toha, Manyang, Dhata;
Gama, Dwang, Achol;
Daniel, Yuel;
Riak
Prediction: Senegal 3-0 South Sudan
Senegal, anticipated to dominate, is expected to secure a convincing win against South Sudan in a potentially high-scoring encounter.