Twenty-four years after one of the most famous upsets in World Cup history, France and Senegal are set to meet once again on football's biggest stage.

The Group I showdown inevitably brings back memories of the 2002 World Cup opener in South Korea, when tournament debutants Senegal stunned defending champions France with a memorable 1-0 victory that shocked the football world and launched the Lions of Teranga on an unforgettable run to the quarter-finals.

Now, as the two nations prepare for another chapter of their World Cup story, France head coach Didier Deschamps has made one thing clear: Senegal deserve enormous respect.

"Senegal Have Everything"

While France enter the tournament among the favourites to lift the trophy, Deschamps believes their opening opponents possess all the qualities required to compete with the world's best.

According to the French coach, Senegal are no longer viewed merely as one of Africa's strongest teams—they have established themselves among the elite of international football.

"Senegal is one of the best teams in Africa and one of the best teams in the world," Deschamps said ahead of Tuesday's encounter.

"When you reach that level, it means you have quality in every area."

The France boss highlighted Senegal's balance across the pitch, pointing to their attacking talent, midfield strength and defensive organisation as key reasons behind their recent success.

"They have players with tremendous attacking potential, and their midfield functions extremely well."

Deschamps was equally impressed by Senegal's defensive structure and physical presence, qualities that helped the Lions of Teranga become one of Africa's most feared sides.

"The defensive side of their game has been very effective, especially in recent tournaments."

"But it's not only about physical strength. They also have many technically gifted players who can make the difference."

For that reason, the French manager expects a difficult challenge from the opening whistle.

"We know what to expect, and they know what to expect as well."

"It will be a high-level battle between two very good teams."

A Strong Start Is Important

Although the opening match is not decisive in determining qualification, Deschamps acknowledged its significance.

France understand that beginning the tournament with three points could provide a major advantage in a competitive group.

"It is always important to win your first match."

"It doesn't decide everything, but starting with a victory is always the objective."

However, the coach insisted that France's preparation and mindset would remain the same regardless of who stood on the opposite side.

"The approach doesn't change because every opening game is important."

Still, he admitted Senegal represent one of the strongest opponents France have faced in a World Cup opener in recent years.

"Based on what Senegal have achieved in recent years, they are a very high-level opponent."

"They deserve the same respect as any major football nation."

No Revenge, Only a New Chapter

Given the history between the two countries, much of the pre-match discussion has centred on the famous encounter in 2002.

Yet Deschamps has no interest in framing Tuesday's match as an opportunity for revenge.

For him, the events of 24 years ago belong to football history.

"It's part of history," he said.

"I watched that match, but almost all of my players were not even born when it happened."

The French manager dismissed suggestions that the current generation should carry the emotional burden of a result that occurred decades ago.

"I know people like to use the word revenge."

"But for me, there is no such thing as revenge in football."

"That happened a very long time ago."

Instead, Deschamps believes both teams should focus entirely on the present.

"Good for Senegal for what they achieved in 2002."

"But now there is a new story to write."

"Our job is to make sure the result goes our way this time."

Respect for the Present, Not the Past

Deschamps also warned against comparing generations.

While Senegal's heroes from 2002 will always occupy a special place in football history, he believes the current team deserves to be judged on its own merits.

"What interests me is tomorrow's match."

"I've watched several Senegal games, and they are a very good team with very good players."

The France coach emphasized that today's Senegal side possesses all the tools required to challenge the biggest football nations.

"The 2002 team did what it needed to do and made Senegal proud."

"But today's team also has everything required to compete at the highest level."

Another Opportunity for Senegal

For Senegal, the meeting with France offers an opportunity to create another memorable World Cup moment.

The Lions of Teranga are appearing in their fourth World Cup after qualifying for the 2002, 2018, 2022 and 2026 tournaments.

Their historic run to the quarter-finals in 2002 remains the benchmark for African football excellence, and many believe the current generation possesses enough quality to challenge that achievement.

After facing France, Senegal will continue their Group I campaign against Norway before concluding the group stage against Iraq.

But first comes the match that everyone has circled on the calendar.

Twenty-four years after one of football's greatest surprises, France and Senegal meet again.

The memories remain.

The history remains.

But as Deschamps insists, this is not about revenge.

This is about writing a new chapter.