Senegal speaker: “Whoever wins, Africa beats Africa” in Senegal‑France match.

By Ayobami Okerinde

Senegal’s parliamentary speaker, Ousmane Sonko, stated that regardless of the result of the upcoming World Cup match between Senegal and France, Africa would still come out ahead because of the significant number of players of African descent in the French squad.

In an interview with France 24 and RFI before the opening group‑stage game, Sonko said the encounter goes beyond football and underscores Africa’s contribution to global talent.

“It’s only a football match. But if you look at it politically, whoever wins, Africa will have beaten Africa,” Sonko remarked.

He also expressed his hope that the Teranga Lions would defeat France, recalling Senegal’s historic 1‑0 victory over the defending champions in the 2002 World Cup.

“I think Senegal will win. At least, that’s my hope, like every Senegalese person,” he added.

Sonko highlighted the French team’s composition as evidence of Africa’s importance and the value of its human resources, urging Africans to recognize the continent’s strengths.

He noted that Africa has abundant natural resources, a youthful and growing population, and a strategic position that should inspire greater confidence among its people.

“Just looking at the make‑up of the French national team tells us something about where the real need lies,” he said. “The message I always give to Africans is that if we understand our own value and embrace it – we have natural resources, we have human resources, we have a rapidly growing and overwhelmingly young population and we have a strategic position – then I believe the balance of needs is not where people often think it is.”

He added that this perspective could help address debates about migration and other issues that exist between the West and Africa.

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