The Senegal national team sealed its ticket to the 2026 World Cup with a commanding 4–0 victory over Mauritania on the final matchday of CAF Group B qualifying. With a brace from Sadio Mané and goals from Iliman Ndiaye and Habib Diallo, the Lions of Teranga reached 24 points, securing first place in the group and a direct berth to the World Cup.

Led by Aliou Cissé, Senegal once again showcased its dominance in African football and its strength in decisive moments. Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with 22 points, did its job by defeating Sudan, but will have to wait for its chance in the playoff stage.

Sadio Mané leads the way with another stellar brace

The team’s undisputed leader, Sadio Mané, shone once again. The Al Nassr forward — and teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo — opened the scoring in the 45+1 minute with a flawless free kick that curled into the top corner, evoking memories of his best days at Liverpool.

Early in the second half, in the 48th minute, Krépin Diatta created a brilliant play down the right wing and delivered a perfect pass for Mané, who finished with composure inside the box to net his second goal of the night and put Senegal firmly in control.

Ndiaye and Diallo complete Senegal’s showcase

Senegal’s dominance remained unshaken throughout the match. In the 64th minute, Nicolas Jackson sent in a precise cross to Iliman Ndiaye, who finished calmly to make it 3–0.

Then, as the match was winding down, in the 86th minute, Habib Diallo put the finishing touch on the rout with a powerful strike inside the box, sealing the 4–0 final score and igniting celebrations among Senegalese fans.

With this victory, Senegal completed an impeccable qualifying campaign with 24 points, earning its fourth World Cup appearance (2002, 2018, 2022, and 2026). The work of Aliou Cissé and the brilliance of Sadio Mané confirm the Lions of Teranga as one of the strongest teams on the continent heading toward North America 2026, with their sights set on making history and surpassing their legendary 2002 run.