World Cup 2026: Senegal coach Pape Thiaw rallies diaspora support ahead of France clash

Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has called on the Senegalese diaspora in North America to rally behind the Teranga Lions as they prepare for their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against France on Tuesday.

The one-time African champions will compete without their traditional travelling supporters after visa restrictions made it difficult for many Senegal-based fans to attend the tournament in the United States.

Speaking ahead of the Group I encounter at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Thiaw admitted the absence of supporters from home would be felt but expressed confidence that Senegalese communities across North America would fill the void.

“Of course, we'd like to have our fans with us. They push us, especially in tough moments, but we won't have them with us,” Thiaw told reporters.

Senegal are expected to draw support from large diaspora communities in cities such as New York, Chicago and Montreal.

In New York alone, the Senegalese population is estimated to number around 20,000, with many residing in Harlem's well-known “Little Senegal” district.

The 45-year-old coach believes the passion of these supporters can provide a crucial boost against a formidable French side.

“We do have a major Senegalese community here, and we know the Senegalese are very patriotic. They love their national team,” he said. “You'll see it tomorrow, and you won't believe that there aren't any Senegalese people travelling from Senegal.”

Thiaw also stressed the importance of making a strong start to the tournament, describing the opening fixture as a key test for his side's ambitions.

“It’s important to gain trust early on and to help with the team spirit. We know it won’t be easy, but we are prepared and ready,” he said. “We have weapons of our own, and we can beat any team if we do things right.”

Following their showdown with France, Senegal will remain in the New York area for their second group-stage match against Norway before concluding their campaign against Iraq in Toronto, where more supporters from Africa are expected to attend due to easier travel arrangements into Canada.

Senegal enter the tournament carrying Africa's hopes of another deep World Cup run and will be looking to begin their campaign with a statement performance against one of the favourites for the title.