Kalidou Koulibaly has urged Senegal to look forward with confidence after the Teranga Lions suffered a 3-1 defeat to France in their opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The European champions proved too strong in the second half, with Kylian Mbappé — who scored twice — and Bradley Barcola doing the damage after the break. Senegal had given a spirited account of themselves in the first half, with Nicolas Jackson and Ismaila Sarr both threatening to put their side in front.

Koulibaly laments slow start

Koulibaly was candid about his disappointment following the result, acknowledging that Senegal had always prided themselves on making a strong start to tournaments.