Senegal coach Pape Thiaw weighs changes as France’s Bradley Barcola stars in World Cup Group I

Senegal lost 3-1 to France in its Group I opener at the 2026 World Cup, with goalkeeper Édouard Mendy conceding three goals. Coach Pape Thiaw said he would decide on lineup tweaks for the upcoming match against Norway but did not reveal details, noting the team must treat the next game as a must‑win. He confirmed his contract issue has been settled and dismissed rumors about internal problems, saying the squad remains focused.

In France’s match, substitute winger Bradley Barcola scored the second goal against Senegal, prompting head coach Didier Deschamps to consider him for the left‑wing position in the next fixture against Iraq. Analysts noted Barcola’s impact could influence rotation decisions as France prepares for the group’s final games.