Habib Diarra expresses his disappointment following Senegal’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup

The Teranga Lions’ elimination by Belgium in the round of 32 has left Pape Thiaw’s team feeling frustrated.

Habib Diarra, who opened the scoring in the match, made no secret of his deep disappointment at the final whistle. The Senegalese midfielder said the Lions had made a good start to the match, but had failed to maintain that intensity throughout the game.

Habib Diarra nevertheless emphasised the team’s collective responsibility, believing that the Senegalese players must, above all, take a hard look at themselves.

“We had a good first half, but it wasn’t enough. Matches normally last 90 minutes. We’re very disappointed. We’re devastated. It’s very hard. The substitutions? I can’t comment on that. We have to give our all when we’re on the pitch. That’s not what we did. We’ve only ourselves to blame. The penalty? I’d rather not talk about the referee.”

It should be noted that Senegal lost 3–2 after leading 2–0 until the 85th minute.