Senegal and France begin their World Cup campaign on Tuesday as they face each other in a Group I encounter at the New York, New Jersey Stadium, East Rutherford.
Senegal arrive with mixed recent results. They have recorded two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five outings. Their positive results include victories over Peru (2-0) and Gambia (3-1) in friendly matches earlier in the year. However, their final preparations were less convincing, with a 3-2 defeat to the United States followed by a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia.
Senegal team news
Senegal have a strong and largely fit squad heading into this important opening fixture. Star winger Sadio Mané is fully fit and particularly motivated after missing the previous World Cup due to injury.
Midfielder Idrissa Gueye is also available, having quickly recovered from a minor issue picked up in training.
There are slight concerns over Cherif Ndiaye and Assane Diao, who are both dealing with small knocks.
Head coach Pape Thiaw is expected to deploy a balanced 4-3-3 system to challenge France effectively. Édouard Mendy will start in goal.
At the back, experienced defender Kalidou Koulibaly will captain the defence alongside Moussa Niakhaté. In midfield, Lamine Camara and Pape Gueye will play key roles in controlling the tempo and breaking up opposition attacks.
In attack, Nicolas Jackson will lead the frontline, supported by Sadio Mané and Iliman Ndiaye on the wings.
Senegal predicted lineup
Possible Senegal starting XI: Mendy; Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhate, Diouf; Camara, P. Gueye; Sarr, Diarra, Mane; Jackson
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 8pm BST on Tuesday, 16th May.
How to watch France vs Senegal?
Fans in the UK can watch the France vs Senegal match live on BBC One, with streaming available for free through BBC iPlayer.
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