Senegal is preparing to face Belgium in the 2026 World Cup round of 16. Three days before the clash against Belgium, the outlines of Senegal's starting eleven are beginning to take shape.

What is Pape Thiaw's plan?

Pape Thiaw is expected to make several major changes to present his most competitive team for this decisive match.

The first expected adjustment concerns the defense. Absent from the starting eleven in the last match, Ismaïl Jakobs is expected to return to his left-back position.

Who are the key players?

Ismaïl Jakobs will bring his experience and speed to contain the Belgian transitions.

PlayerPosition
Ismaïl JakobsDefender

What is the current context?

Last result: France 3-1 Senegal (2026-06-16). Recent form (last 5 matches): 2W-0D-3L (LLLWW, most recent first).

Senegal needs to bounce back from their defeat against France. Pape Thiaw is counting on his players to reverse the trend.