2026 World Cup: Senegal Can Match 2002 Achievement –Koulibaly

Senegal defender Kalidou Koulibaly says he’s optimistic the Lions of Teranga can match their 2002 achievement, where the team reached the quarterfinals of the World Cup.

Koulibaly was only 11 years old during the 2002 tournament, and he frequently cites that iconic opening-match victory over France as a massive inspiration for his generation.

In a chat with FIFA.com, Koulibaly expressed deep confidence in the current squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He stated that the team is aiming to match or even surpass the historic quarter-final run made by the legendary 2002 ‘Lions of Teranga.’

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“When you have a squad of that calibre with talented players who have won the (UEFA) Champions League and are top scorers at their respective clubs… even at European level it’s hard to find a way to get a result against them,” the former Chelsea defender told FIFA.com.

“But we will do everything we can to succeed because representing our country means everything to us. And when you pull on that Senegal shirt, it gives you something extra and makes you want to perform at your best. That’s the spirit we’ll be taking into these matches.

“I remember this match like it was yesterday… I was 11 years old at the time and I even remember which classes were there when I watched the game!

“It was pure joy when Senegal legend Papa Bouba (Diop) scored after the cut-back from the great El-Hadji Diouf. It was a truly special moment – the goal itself, the joy it sparked among the fans and, of course, the dance celebration.

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“I still remember copying the dance with all my friends as a kid.

“These moments really strengthened our bond with our country and made us believe that Senegal could go far in major tournaments. I think it’s still an inspiration for us all today.

“All the players of my generation know about the class of 2002 and, while today’s youngsters might not be so familiar with them, we want to match their performance, if not improve on it.”