Country profile
Senegal
Republic of Senegal
Key facts
Capital
Dakar
Population
17,300,000
Confederation
CAF
FIFA code
SEN
Overview
Senegal, perched on Africa's westernmost edge where the Sahel meets the Atlantic, is a nation of vibrant rhythm, deep Sufi traditions and fierce sporting pride. From the bustling streets of Dakar to the sacred city of Touba, football and wrestling pulse through daily life.
A former French colony that gained independence in 1960, Senegal has become one of the continent's most influential cultural and footballing powers, exporting elite talent to Europe's biggest clubs while building a thriving domestic academy system.
Football culture
Football is a national obsession, second only to traditional Senegalese wrestling (laamb) in passion. Match days unite generations, and the success of the national team is woven into the country's modern identity. Stars like Sadio Mané are revered as national heroes who fund schools and hospitals back home.
World Cup history
Senegal stunned the world on debut in 2002, beating reigning champions France and storming to the quarter-finals. They returned in 2018 and reached the round of 16 in 2022, cementing their status as Africa's most consistent recent World Cup performer.
Location
Did you know
- Dakar hosts the legendary finish of the original Paris-Dakar Rally.
- Senegal's 2002 win over France remains one of football's greatest upsets.
- Traditional wrestling (laamb) draws bigger crowds than football matches.
- The pink waters of Lake Retba are a natural wonder.
- Sadio Mané famously donated millions to build facilities in his home village of Bambali.
From Wikipedia
Senegal, officially the Republic of Senegal, is the westernmost country in West Africa, situated along the Atlantic Ocean coast. It borders Mauritania to the north, Mali to the east, Guinea to the southeast and Guinea-Bissau to the southwest. Senegal nearly surrounds the Gambia, a country occupying a narrow strip of land along the banks of…
Source: Wikipedia →