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

The Group I clash will inevitably revive memories of the 2002 FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan, where tournament debutants Senegal stunned defending champions France with a famous 1-0 victory in the opening match of the competition.

That result announced Senegal to the world and marked the beginning of a remarkable run that carried the Lions of Teranga all the way to the quarter-finals.

Now, as the two nations prepare to face each other again at World Cup 2026, Senegal arrive believing they are capable of causing another upset.

The Legacy of 2002

Senegal's World Cup story remains one of African football's most inspiring achievements.

Making their tournament debut in 2002, the West Africans shocked the football world by defeating reigning champions France before drawing against Denmark and Uruguay to advance from the group stage.

Their dream journey continued in the knockout rounds, where they defeated Sweden 2-1 thanks to a dramatic golden-goal winner.

Only Turkey managed to stop their run, edging Senegal 1-0 in the quarter-finals.

That remains the best World Cup performance in the nation's history and helped establish Senegal as one of Africa's most respected football powers.

Since then, the Lions of Teranga have qualified for four World Cups in total, appearing in 2002, 2018, 2022 and now 2026.

Across their World Cup history, Senegal have recorded five wins, three draws and four defeats in 12 matches.

Ambitious, But Grounded

Despite the historical significance of facing France again, Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw insists his team is focused on the bigger picture.

For him, the World Cup campaign cannot be defined by a single opponent.

"We're playing against France, but the competition isn't only about France," Thiaw told reporters ahead of the match.

"There are other difficult games waiting for us, including Norway and Iraq."

At the same time, the Senegal boss made it clear that his team fears nobody.

"It wouldn't be a surprise if Senegal beats France," he said confidently.

"We have world-class players. We are African champions. We've qualified for three consecutive World Cups and reached three AFCON finals in the last four editions."

Those achievements have helped Senegal establish itself among the continent's elite nations.

"We have our status," Thiaw added.

"We can compete against any team."

However, the coach was careful to strike a balance between confidence and humility.

"We are very ambitious, but we are not arrogant."

"We can beat anyone, but we can also lose against anyone if we don't do things correctly."

Ready for the Real Test

Senegal arrive at the tournament after a series of preparation matches that produced encouraging results, but Thiaw believes the real evaluation begins now.

The coach explained that several players used the friendlies to regain rhythm and fitness after limited playing time at club level.

"The Senegal team people saw during the preparation matches is slightly different from the one they will see now," he said.

"Friendly matches are for preparation."

"We needed to help some players get up to speed and ensure everyone was physically ready."

With the World Cup finally beginning, Thiaw expects his team to show its true level.

"I think tomorrow people will see the real version of Senegal."

Koulibaly Cleared to Play

One of the biggest concerns surrounding Senegal's preparations involved captain Kalidou Koulibaly.

The experienced defender missed part of the final stretch of the Saudi Pro League season with Al Hilal, creating uncertainty about his availability for the tournament.

Those concerns have now been eased.

According to Thiaw, both Koulibaly and midfielder Idrissa Gueye are fully fit and available for selection.

"I have my entire squad available," the coach confirmed.

"Kalidou returned during our final preparation match and all the players are fit."

The positive update gives Senegal a major boost ahead of their opening fixture, ensuring their most experienced leaders will be available when needed most.

More Than a Match

While Thiaw acknowledged the symbolic importance of facing France again, he stressed that emotions must not overshadow the team's objectives.

The memories of 2002 remain special, but Senegal's focus is firmly on the present.

"We know we are facing a very strong team," he said.

"France have world-class players."

"But we have world-class players as well."

The coach believes Senegal's greatest strength lies in its collective spirit and unity.

"We rely on our team spirit."

"We hope to show that on the pitch."

For Senegal, the meeting with France carries historical significance, but the goal remains simple: start the World Cup with a positive result and continue building toward qualification.

"The match against France represents a lot," Thiaw admitted.

"But we will keep it within the sporting context and do everything possible to achieve victory."

A Tough Road Ahead

After facing France, Senegal's World Cup journey continues with difficult matches against Norway and Iraq.

The encounter with Norway takes place on June 22 at New York New Jersey Stadium, before the Lions of Teranga conclude their group-stage campaign against Iraq in Toronto on June 26.

With a balanced squad, growing confidence and memories of a famous victory still alive, Senegal believe they can once again challenge the world's best.

And if history has taught football fans anything, it is that writing off the Lions of Teranga is often a mistake.