Senegal Land in USA as 2026 World Cup Preparations Kick Off in New Jersey

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Senegal players pose for a group photo before the start of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final football match between Senegal and Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on January 18, 2026. (Photo by Franck FIFE / AFP via Getty Images)

Teraga Lions preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup gathered momentum after Senegal safely arrived at their training base in New Jersey ahead of the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The African giants will use the facilities at Rutgers University as their main training camp while final preparations are completed before the start of the competition. Excitement has continued to build around the squad following their arrival on the American continent, with the team expected to begin intensive sessions immediately.

Senegal will open their World Cup campaign with a high-profile clash against 2022 World Cup finalists France on June 16 at the New York and New Jersey Stadium. Attention will then shift to another difficult Group I encounter against Norway on June 22 before the Teranga Lions conclude the group stage against Iraq on June 26.

FSF Confirms Safe Arrival in USA as More Senegal Stars Set to Join Camp

Confirmation of the team’s arrival was provided by the Senegalese Football Federation in an official statement released shortly after the delegation touched down in the United States on May 28.

“The Senegalese Football Federation informs the Senegalese people and all fans of the national team of the safe arrival of the Lions on the American continent today, at 05:02 a.m.

“Our team’s journey took place in excellent conditions, allowing for rest and serenity before the start of this World Cup.

“Idrissa Gana Gueye will join the team on May 29. Ibrahima Mbaye, Antoine Mendy and Yehvann Diouf will arrive on June 3 and Ismaila Sarr and Pathé Ciss will join on June 4.

“The FSF thanks the State of Senegal and all those who contributed to the realization of this special private flight.”

The gradual arrival of the remaining players is expected to strengthen head coach Pape Thiaw’s squad over the coming days as Senegal continue their build-up to another appearance on football’s biggest stage.

Confidence remains high within the camp after the Teranga Lions enjoyed an impressive run in recent international competitions. The players are now fully focused on carrying that momentum into the World Cup as they aim to make a strong impact against some of the best teams in the tournament.

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Victor Onuh
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