The Group I fixture will be a repeat of the 2002 edition in South Korea, when the two sides were drawn to face each other in the group-stage opener. During the fixture, Senegal shocked the defending champions France, with a famous 1-0 victory.
The Lions of Teranga will be returning to the global stage for the fourth time, having qualified in 2002, 2018, 2022, and 2026. Their best performance occurred during their tournament debut in 2002, when they reached the quarter-finals.
[infobox id=”4ccc1b10-d68f-4c97-bcf4-5e613c17c2e3″ /]Senegal have ‘everything’
“Senegal is among the best teams in Africa and the world. To be among these teams, you obviously have everything in terms of quality,” said Deschamps.
“They have players with significant attacking potential, and a midfield that functions very, very well.”
Deschamps further highlighted the Lion of Teranga’s defensive solidity as well as their athletic and technical qualities.
“The defensive aspect, too, was very effective in the last competition with the AFCON, with a strong physical presence. But it’s not just that; there are also many players who bring significant technical skill,” explained Deschamps.
“We know what to expect, and they know what to expect too. It will be a duel, a high-level clash for the opening match.”
Deschamps added: “It is important to win the first match of a competition, but it is not decisive. Starting with a victory in a group of four teams is the best thing, and that is always the objective when approaching your first match.
“The approach to the event has not changed because, regardless of the opponent, it is important.
“On paper, and based on what Senegal achieved during the last AFCON, they are a very, very high-level opponent, but there is the same attention and the same respect as with our first opponents in the last World Cups.”
During the 2002 campaign in South Korea, Senegal followed France’s victory with draws against Denmark and Uruguay to advance to the knockout rounds.
Senegal defeated Sweden 2-1 in the Round of 16 via a golden goal before falling to Turkey 1-0 in the quarter-finals. Senegal will face France again seeking to repeat their performance from 2002.
France not after revenge
“It’s part of history. I watched the match, but almost all of my players weren’t even born in 2002. I know you have this famous word ‘revenge,’ but for me, there’s no such thing as revenge in football, and it happened 24 years ago,” explained Deschamps.
“Good for Senegal for what happened in 2002, but now there’s a new chapter to write. Today we’re going to do everything we can to make sure the result goes our way.”
Deschamps continued: “I don’t even remember the 2002 Senegal team. They must have been strong since they beat France, who had a very, very good team.
“What interests me is tomorrow (Tuesday’s match). Having watched several Senegal matches, I can say they’re a very good team with very good players. I don’t like it when people talk about generations, and even less when they’re pitted against each other.
“The 2002 team did what was necessary, much to Senegal’s delight. But today, we’re facing a very good Senegal team, one that has all the qualities required for top-level football.”
Apart from France, Senegal will also face Norway on June 22nd at New York New Jersey Stadium before winding up their group stage matches against Iraq at Toronto Stadium on June 26th.
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