WATCH: Senegal arrive at team hotel ahead of France World Cup clash

Senegal's national football team has arrived in New Brunswick, New Jersey, five days before their opening match against France in the 2026 World Cup. Led by captain Kalidou Koulibaly and with veteran Sadio Mané, now 34, still a key player, the team was greeted by fans and received flowers upon arrival.

Coach Pape Thiaw's squad faces a formidable challenge in Group I, competing against 2018 winners and 2022 runners-up France, Norway, and Iraq. Senegal has a history of surprising strong opponents, notably their 2002 World Cup opener win against France, which propelled them to their best-ever quarter-final finish. They aim for a similar upset and a deep tournament run.

However, their build-up has been marred by controversy stemming from the Africa Cup of Nations final in January. Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 after extra time, but the match ended in chaos when players walked off the pitch protesting a late penalty. The Confederation of African Football subsequently stripped Senegal of their title, a decision the team has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Notably, Sadio Mané, who missed the last World Cup due to injury, is back to lead the team.