Senegal go into the Under-17 World Cup as favourites to win Group F after being crowned African champions, but face their toughest opening-round challenge against Croatia on 20 November.
The Young Lions are appearing at the tournament for the third consecutive time, with Ludovic Lamine Sane’s side aiming to turn their continental success into a deep run on the world stage.
Senegal’s route through the group stage also includes matches against Cuba and Tajikistan. On paper, the group offers them a favourable opportunity to progress, although Croatia are regarded as the main threat to their ambitions.
A victory in their opening match could give Senegal an immediate advantage and potentially secure top spot in Group F. However, defeat or a disappointing result against Croatia could raise doubts around their campaign and make the remainder of the first round more difficult.
Sane and his players arrive with significant expectations following their African title. Their status as continental champions means they are expected to lead the group, while the opening fixture will provide an early indication of whether they can match those expectations at the Under-17 World Cup.
After facing Croatia, Senegal will meet Cuba on 23 November before completing their first-round schedule against Tajikistan three days later. The final fixture gives them a chance to finish the group stage strongly, but their performance in the opening two games could shape the importance of that match.
Senegal’s first-round programme at the Under-17 World Cup is:
- 20 November, 15:30: Senegal v Croatia - 23 November, 13:30: Senegal v Cuba - 26 November, 16:00: Tajikistan v Senegal
The group provides Senegal with a clear opportunity to advance, but their opening meeting with Croatia stands out as the key fixture. A strong start would strengthen their position as Group F favourites, while any setback would leave them needing to respond quickly in their games against Cuba and Tajikistan.
With their African championship title behind them and a third successive Under-17 World Cup qualification secured, Senegal will look to make their experience count. Their campaign begins against the side considered most capable of challenging them for first place.