One of the most storied rivalries in World Cup history is set to be renewed on Tuesday, when Senegal face France in Group I at New York New Jersey Stadium — the venue that will also host the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

More than two decades have passed since Senegal produced one of African football's defining moments: a 1-0 victory over reigning champions France in the opening match of the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Seoul. Papa Bouba Diop's winner that night remains one of the most celebrated goals in the history of the continental game.

That triumph announced the Lions of Teranga to a global audience, and the memory of it burns bright ahead of Tuesday's rematch.

Thiaw refuses to call Senegal underdogs

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw was emphatic at the pre-match press conference when it came to his side's status heading into the contest. The former striker cited both his squad's quality and the nation's tournament record as evidence that a repeat victory would be no great shock.