Pre-World Cup 2026 friendlies: Senegal-Peru, likely lineups

After the resounding forfeiture of the African Cup of Nations-with the title awarded to Morocco-Senegal returns to the pitch at the Stade de France in preparation for the 2026 World Cup. The “Lions of the Teranga” hit the World Cup pass with a showdown in November 2025, overwhelming Togo 3-0 in Dakar. The international caliber of the group is guaranteed by mainstays such as Sadio Mané and Kalidou Koulibaly, but it is the growth of young talent that bodes well for the future, with the likes of Tottenham’s Pape Matar Sarr and PSG’s Ibrahim Mbaye raising the hosts’ technical level to unprecedented heights.

For Peru, however, the challenge represents the first step in a much-needed rebuilding. After the bitter disappointment in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, which ended in second-to-last place, the Andean national team seeks to turn over a new leaf. La Blanquirroja takes the field to honor its prestige and test its new recruits against one of the most physical selections on the planet. The goal is to regain the defensive solidity that has been lacking in the last two years and show that Peruvian soccer is ready to raise its head again.

As for the Senegalese lineup, Mendy will defend the posts, Koulibaly and Niakhate favored as centerbacks, in the median Gana Gueye with Pape Gueye and Lamine Camara, forward Nicolas Jackson with Sarr and Diao on the flanks. Mané could start from the bench, first call-up for Club Brugge talent Diakhon.

South Americans with Welsh in goal, while Llontop and Huaman will act as full-backs. In the midfield, Torres in the box, assisted by Murrugarra and Castello. Vilca and Neira in the three-quarter, supporting the only forward Succar.

Probable lineups

Senegal (4-3-3): E. Mendy; A Mendy, Koulibaly, Niakhate, Diouf; L Camara, I Gueye, P Gueye; Diao, Jackson, I. Sarr. All. Thiaw

Peru (4-3-3): Welsh; Huaman, Chavez Massoni, Barco, Llontop; Murrugarra, Torres, Castello; Cabello Anagua, Vilca, Neira; Succar. All. Menezes.

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