The Senegalese U17 football team, affectionately known as the Lionceaux, has been officially presented with the national flag ahead of their participation in the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup. The ceremony took place at the Stade Léopold Sédar Senghor on November 13, 2026, and was attended by various officials, including members of the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF). The event marked the beginning of the team's journey to represent Senegal in the international competition.
The national flag was presented to the team by Minister of Youth and Sports Djirèye Clotilde Coly on behalf of President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye. In her address, the minister emphasized the importance of the team's mission, encouraging them to exhibit determination, discipline, and a winning spirit. She also reminded them of their responsibility as ambassadors of the nation, urging them to make Senegal proud.
The Lionceaux will be competing in the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place in Qatar from November 19 to December 13, 2026. The team's coach, Lamine Sané, expressed his confidence in the team's abilities, assuring that the players will give their best to represent Senegal with dignity. The team's participation in the tournament is seen as an opportunity for Senegal to shine on the international football stage.
The presentation ceremony was also attended by Pape Sidy Lô, the third vice-president of the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), who spoke on behalf of the federation's president. He highlighted the significance of the team's participation in the World Cup, which offers Senegal a chance to showcase its footballing prowess globally.
The Lionceaux have been performing well in recent tournaments, having won a continental title in Rabat in June 2026. The minister encouraged the team to build on this momentum and continue to make Senegal proud. With the national flag now in their possession, the team is set to embark on their World Cup journey with a sense of pride and responsibility.
As the team prepares to depart for Qatar, they are expected to face stiff competition from other top teams in the tournament. However, with their determination and skills, the Lionceaux are confident of making a good impression on the global stage. The team's performance will be closely watched by football fans back in Senegal, who are eager to see their team succeed.
The 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup will feature teams from around the world, competing for the coveted title. Senegal's participation in the tournament is a significant milestone for the country's football development, and the team is expected to make a positive impact. With the support of their fans and the national flag waving high, the Lionceaux are ready to take on the challenge.
Key points
- The Senegalese U17 football team received the national flag ahead of their departure to the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.
Reporting sources
- Les lionceaux reçoivent le drapeau national · Le Soleil
