Does Sadio Mané play today? France vs Senegal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Sadio Mané has this Tuesday (16) the chance to relive historic moments in Senegal’s debut at the 2026 World Cup. The veteran striker starts the tournament against France, in the first round of Group I, at the MetLife Stadium, in East Rutherford, in the United States, with the mission of leading the attack, exploiting counterattacks and trying to repeat the 2002 feat against the French.

At 34 years old, Mané remains a reference for the Lions of Teranga. Despite his advanced age, he maintained a good level last season, contributing with decisive goals and assists. His experience, residual speed and leadership on the field are fundamental for Pape Thiaw, who counts on his idol as his main offensive weapon alongside Nicolas Jackson.

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Mané, the heart of Senegal

Senegal arrives motivated after a good campaign in the African Qualifiers, occupying 15th place in the FIFA rankings. With Mané leading the attack, the African team dreams of complicating life for France, one of the big favorites for the title and third in the rankings. The Senegalese defense, anchored by Kalidou Koulibaly, and Édouard Mendy’s goal complete a competitive team.

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On the French side, Didier Deschamps should play Mike Maignan in goal, with Jules Koundé, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano and Theo Hernández in defense, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adrien Rabiot in the middle, and Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué and Kylian Mbappé in attack.

Historic revenge and leadership

The reunion 24 years later carries enormous symbolism. In 2002, Senegal beat France 1-0 in the opening of the World Cup, with a goal from Papa Bouba Diop, and reached the quarter-finals. Mané, a national idol with vast experience in World Cups, has the opportunity to inspire new surprises and lead the quick transitions against favorites France. Referee Alireza Faghani commands the physical duel.

Probable Senegal lineup: Mendy; Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhaté; Camara, Gueye, Sarr; Mané, Jackson and others. France must come with Maignan; Koundé, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernández; Tchouaméni, Rabiot; Olise, Dembélé, Doué; Mbappe.

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What’s at stake in Group I

A victory or draw for Senegal would already be a great result against French strength. For Mané, the game represents the chance to start the tournament with an inspired performance and motivate the team in the following rounds against Norway and Iraq. The stadium should have a large audience, with mixed fans.

Where to watch live

Full coverage: Latest News (EN)

In Brazil, transmission is carried out by SBT on an open signal, with options also on Globoplay and other platforms. The ball rolls at 4pm (Brasília time).

France enters as favorites, but Senegal carries the weight of history and the leadership of Sadio Mané. In World Cups, upsets are always possible — and the Senegalese idol could be the name of the match.