The Speaker of Senegal’s National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko, has expressed confidence that Senegal can defeat France in their opening FIFA World Cup match, describing the encounter as more than just a football game.
Sonko made the remarks during an interview with RFI and France 24 in Dakar on Monday, where he discussed Senegal’s chances against the reigning opponents in the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener.
The Senegalese lawmaker said he believes his country will secure victory, while also reflecting on the large number of players of African origin in the French national team.
“I think Senegal will win. At least, that’s my hope, like every Senegalese person,” he said.
He added that beyond the sporting contest, the match carries a broader symbolic meaning connected to Africa’s contribution to global football talent.
“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 said.
According to him, the composition of the French squad highlights the role Africa plays in producing world-class talent and should encourage deeper reflection on the continent’s value in global affairs.
He noted that Africa possesses vast human and natural resources, a youthful population and a strategic global position that should be better recognised in international relations.
Sonko also suggested that such realities should influence discussions around migration and Africa’s relationship with Western countries.
“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, a rapidly growing and overwhelmingly young population and a strategic position then I believe the balance of needs is not where people often think it is,” he said.
The remarks came during a broader interview in which he also discussed Senegal’s domestic politics, economic development, and regional security issues in West Africa.
Sonko was elected Speaker of the National Assembly in May, shortly after serving as Prime Minister under President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
