Senegal’s ousmane sonko on the France-Senegal world cup clash: “africa beats africa”

Ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup encounter between France and Senegal, Ousmane Sonko, the President of Senegal’s National Assembly, offered a dual perspective, blending both sporting analysis and political commentary.

During a recent interview, Sonko openly voiced his backing for the Lions of Teranga, underscoring the profound symbolic weight of the fixture. “I believe Senegal will triumph. It’s certainly my hope, shared by all Senegalese,” he remarked. “Ultimately, it remains just a football match.”

Beyond the sporting contest, Ousmane Sonko articulated his belief that this particular match vividly illustrates the intricate connections between Africa and Europe, notably reflected in the diverse makeup of the French national team.

“Irrespective of which team emerges victorious, it will effectively be Africa defeating Africa. Simply observing the composition of the French national squad brings into sharp focus where our true needs lie,” he asserted.

The influential President of the National Assembly further extended a compelling call for Africans to fully recognize their immense potential and inherent strengths.

He emphasized that the continent boasts abundant natural resources, a substantial human capital, and a predominantly youthful population—factors that collectively position Africa to secure a more prominent and influential role in global affairs.

“If we truly understand our intrinsic worth and embrace it,” he contended, “we will realize that the hierarchy of our requirements may not be precisely where we currently perceive it to be.”

For Ousmane Sonko, this profound reflection also intersects with ongoing discussions surrounding immigration and the dynamics of relations between Africa and Western nations. He stressed the imperative to re-evaluate these relationships, taking into account the continent’s evolving demographic, economic, and human realities.