Senegal speaker predicts victory over France in World Cup opener

Ousmane Sonko, the Speaker of Senegal's National Assembly, has framed the upcoming FIFA World Cup match between Senegal and France as more than just a game, calling it a symbolic contest where "Africa will have beaten Africa" regardless of the outcome.

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I think Senegal will win. At least, that’s my hope, like every Senegalese person.

Sonko's remarks, made during an interview with RFI and France 24 in Dakar, stem from the significant number of players of African origin within the French national squad. "I think Senegal will win. At least, that’s my hope, like every Senegalese person," Sonko stated, expressing his personal desire for a Senegalese victory. However, he quickly pivoted to the broader political and symbolic implications: "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 composition of the French team, Sonko argued, serves as a powerful reflection of Africa's vast contribution to global talent. He believes this should inspire a deeper contemplation of the complex relationship between Africa and Europe. "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.

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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.

Sonko's comments, made during a wide-ranging interview that also touched upon Senegal's domestic politics, economic challenges, and regional security, underscore his view that Africa's potential is often underestimated. He suggested that recognizing this inherent value should influence discussions on migration and broader diplomatic and economic ties between African nations and Western countries. His election as Speaker in May followed his recent removal as prime minister by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

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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.