France manager Didier Deschamps has warned that his side face a difficult start to the 2026 World Cup campaign, singling out Senegal and Norway as major threats in Group 9.
Speaking after unveiling France’s squad for the tournament, Deschamps said his team would need to be fully prepared for demanding encounters in the opening phase of the competition.
The French coach made the comments during a press conference in which he was asked about the strength of France’s group, which includes Senegal, Norway and Iraq.
While acknowledging Iraq’s presence in the section, Deschamps suggested that Senegal and Norway would pose particularly serious challenges for the former world champions.
“I respect Iraq, but Senegal and Norway are truly fantastic teams. We’re in for some tough battles in our first three matches,” he said.
France are due to begin their World Cup campaign with a highly anticipated match against Senegal on 16 June, in what is expected to be one of the standout fixtures of the opening round.
The encounter has already generated significant discussion among supporters online, particularly because of the attacking strength available to the French side. A social media post shared shortly after Deschamps’ squad announcement highlighted the challenge awaiting Senegal’s defenders.
“To the defenders of #Senegal This is the attack you’ll be facing on June 16 #WorldCup#France vs #Senegal,” the post read.
The message was accompanied by an image referencing France’s attacking options for the tournament.
Deschamps’ comments suggest France are approaching the group stage with caution despite entering the tournament as one of the favourites. The coach appeared determined not to underestimate any opponent as his team prepare for the competition.
France’s opening fixture against Senegal is likely to attract global attention, with both nations expected to compete strongly for a place in the knockout rounds. Senegal have built a reputation in recent years as one of Africa’s strongest football nations, while Norway’s inclusion in the group has also added to expectations of a competitive section.
The French manager’s assessment reflects the challenge of navigating the early stages of the tournament, where even heavily fancied sides can encounter difficulties against well-organised opposition.
By stressing the quality of both Senegal and Norway, Deschamps appeared keen to ensure his players remain focused ahead of the opening match.
France’s squad announcement marks another important step in the build-up to the 2026 World Cup, with attention now turning towards preparations for the first game. The meeting with Senegal is expected to provide an early indication of France’s form and ambitions in the tournament.
Deschamps, who has overseen France through several major international tournaments, made clear that his side are expecting a stern examination from the very beginning of their World Cup campaign.
