The night of 14 October 2025 will be remembered across Senegal as one of pure joy and national pride. Under the roaring lights of the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium, the Lions of Teranga sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a resounding 4–0 victory over Mauritania — a triumph that sent waves of celebration through Dakar and beyond.
The result marks Senegal’s third consecutive World Cup qualification and their fourth overall, following appearances in 2002, 2018 and 2022.
For the thousands of fans who filled the stands and millions watching across the nation, the win was more than a sporting achievement — it was a moment of unity and collective elation.
The match carried extra emotion, with the neighbouring nations meeting amid a charged atmosphere both on and off the pitch.
Mauritania started aggressively, pressing high and forcing Senegal to remain composed and tactical. But as halftime approached, Sadio Mané rose to the occasion.
With a perfectly struck free kick in stoppage time (45+1), he broke the deadlock, igniting the crowd.
Just three minutes into the second half, he struck again, doubling the lead and adding a 47th international goal to his record.
From that moment, the outcome seemed inevitable. Ilimane Ndiaye extended the lead in the 64th minute before Habib Diallo sealed the emphatic win at 87 minutes, confirming Senegal’s dominance. When the final whistle blew, an explosion of joy swept through the stadium.
Supporters waved flags, sang the national anthem, and danced under showers of coloured smoke as tears of pride streamed down their faces.
Across Dakar, Saint-Louis, Kaolack, Ziguinchor and Thiès, horns blared, fireworks lit the sky, and chants of “Lions Rek!” echoed late into the night.
On social media, tributes poured in: “Le Sénégal au Mondial 2026!”, “Merci Sadio Mané, roi des Lions!”
For Mané, the night was deeply personal. Having missed the 2022 World Cup due to injury, his performance against Mauritania symbolised redemption and resilience.
“I’ve waited for this moment all my life,” one fan said. “Seeing Senegal at the World Cup again is a dream come true.”
Under newly appointed coach Pape Thiaw, the Lions’ qualification signals a new chapter. Finishing top of Group B, ahead of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Senegal reaffirmed its reputation as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.
The celebrations may continue for days, but for the players and fans alike, one message resounds: Senegal is back — and ready to roar on the world stage once more.
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