Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, has stated that Africa will emerge victorious regardless of the outcome of Tuesday’s World Cup Group I encounter between Senegal and France, citing the significant number of players with African roots in the French national team.
Speaking during an interview with France 24 and RFI ahead of the highly anticipated fixture, Sonko said the match carries a broader significance beyond football, reflecting the continent’s contribution to global sporting excellence.
According to him, viewing the contest through a political or social lens reveals that Africa is represented on both sides of the pitch.
“Ultimately, it is only a football game,” Sonko said. “But if one chooses to interpret it politically, then no matter who wins, Africa will have defeated Africa.”
Despite his broader perspective, the Senegalese leader admitted that his personal wish is for the Teranga Lions to claim all three points against France.
He referenced Senegal’s memorable victory over France at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, when the West African nation stunned the reigning champions with a famous 1-0 win in the tournament’s opening match.
“Like every Senegalese citizen, I hope our team comes out on top,” he added.
Sonko argued that the current composition of the French squad demonstrates the vital role Africa continues to play in producing world-class talent. He said the presence of numerous players of African descent in one of football’s most successful national teams should encourage Africans to better appreciate the continent’s value and potential.
The Prime Minister stressed that Africa possesses enormous strengths that are often overlooked, including abundant natural resources, a youthful population, and a strategic global position.
He maintained that these advantages should give Africans greater confidence when discussing their place in the international community.
“Simply examining the makeup of the French team tells us a great deal about where talent and potential come from,” Sonko noted.
He added that Africans must embrace their strengths and recognise the continent’s growing influence.
“We have vast natural resources, a young and expanding population, significant human capital, and a strategic location. When we truly understand our worth, we will realise that the balance of dependence is not always where many people assume it is,” he said.
Sonko further suggested that acknowledging Africa’s importance could help reshape discussions surrounding migration and broader relations between African nations and Western countries.
Tuesday’s clash between Senegal and France is expected to attract significant attention, not only because of the sporting rivalry but also because of the historical and cultural links that continue to connect both nations.
