Senegal Faces Must-Win Match Against Togo in World Cup Qualifiers

Dakar, Senegal — Senegal will host Togo in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at Stade Me Abdoulaye Wade. Both teams are seeking a vital victory as they aim to improve their standings in the competitive Group B of the African qualifiers.

The Teranga Lions currently sit third in the group with nine points from five matches, remaining unbeaten but having dropped points in three games. Historical data reveals that Senegal has won one of the last five encounters against Togo, with the previous meeting also ending in a goalless draw.

“We know the importance of this game for our qualification hopes,” Senegal head coach Malick Thiaw stated. “The players are focused and ready to deliver a strong performance in front of our fans.”

Senegal began their qualifying campaign under a prior coach, achieving two wins and two draws before his dismissal in December 2024. Thiaw took the reins, and his first match resulted in a disappointing 0-0 draw against Sudan, a match that also saw the team miss several key chances.

If Senegal hopes to secure automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, winning against Togo is imperative to close the gap on leaders Sudan and second-placed DR Congo, who trail by only one point. Much is at stake, with the group winner earning direct entry into the World Cup.

Togo has struggled in the qualifiers, currently remaining winless after five matches, consisting of four draws and one loss. They currently occupy the bottom spot in Group B with four points. Despite their inability to secure a win, Togo managed a notable 2-2 draw against Mauritania, which demonstrated resilience even while trailing.

“Every match is a new opportunity. We’ll go into this match against Senegal seeking to make our mark,” Togo’s head coach said. The last time Togo qualified for a World Cup was in 2006, making this match crucial for their aspirations.

Senegal’s squad will be bolstered by the return of key players, including star forward Sadio Mané, who missed previous qualifiers due to injury. However, Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson remains unavailable due to a hamstring issue.

The expected starting lineup for Senegal includes goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, defenders Kalidou Koulibaly and Abdou Diallo, midfielders Idrissa Gueye and Pape Matar Sarr, with an attacking trio of Mané, Boulaye Dia, and Ismaila Sarr.

In contrast, Togo is anticipated to field goalkeeper Satou Koko, supported by a backline of Jeremy Djené, Edgar Ié, and Ama Tchoutchou. Their attack will aim to capitalize on the pace of forwards Jonathan Denkey and Klidje, as they look to surprise Senegal.

The match is set to kick off at 21:00 UTC, and with both teams eager to secure vital points, fans can expect a highly competitive encounter.