Pape Thiaw remains confident despite Senegal’s draw with Saudi Arabia in a friendly

The Lions of Teranga concluded the final phase of their World Cup preparations without a win.

Senegal drew 0-0 with Saudi Arabia on Tuesday night in their final international friendly ahead of the World Cup kick-off on Thursday 11 June. After the match, Senegal manager Pape Thiaw gave a clear-headed assessment. Whilst he lamented his team’s lack of attacking efficiency, he also highlighted the defensive solidity displayed by the Lions of Teranga.

“We are in the midst of our preparations. We weren’t clinical up front, but we didn’t concede a goal. That’s a positive.”

Speaking of the French team, Senegal’s opponents in their opening World Cup match on 16 June, Pape Thiaw highlighted the qualities of Didier Deschamps’ squad. However, he reassured that his team would be ready.

“We are up against the top-ranked team in the FIFA rankings, with impressive strengths. But we have our own qualities too, and we will do everything we can to be ready.”

In Group I, Senegal will face France, Norway and Iraq during the group stage of the World Cup.