Senegal winger Ismaila Sarr has expressed confidence that the Teranga Lions can still reach the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite their disappointing defeat to Norway.
Senegal suffered a dramatic 3-2 loss to Norway at the New York/New Jersey Stadium on Monday, leaving their qualification hopes hanging by a thread after losing their opening two Group B matches.
The result saw Norway secure a place in the Round of 32 alongside France, while Senegal remain rooted at the bottom of the group without a point.
Sarr was Senegal’s standout performer against the Norwegians, scoring both of his side’s goals, but the Crystal Palace winger admitted the defeat was difficult to take after another spirited display ended in disappointment.
Despite the setback, the 28-year-old insisted the players have not given up on their World Cup dream. He believes victory over Iraq in their final group game could still keep their hopes of progressing alive, depending on other results.
“It was tough. We’re a little disappointed. But it’s not over yet; there’s still a third game to play,” Sarr told FIFA.com after the match.
“We’re going to go there to win it, and we’re going to work hard.”
Pape Thiaw’s side must now defeat Iraq in their final group fixture and hope results elsewhere go in their favour if they are to book a place in the knockout stage.
Senegal have shown flashes of their attacking quality during the tournament but have struggled defensively, conceding crucial goals at key moments in both of their matches. They will now be aiming to produce their best performance of the competition when they face the Asian side in what has become a must-win encounter.
The Teranga Lions reached the knockout rounds at the 2022 World Cup and arrived at this year’s tournament with high expectations. However, back-to-back defeats have left them facing an early exit unless they can respond with a victory in their final group game.
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