BANJARMASINPOST CO.ID, BANJARBARU - The clash between France and Senegal has become one of the most awaited fixtures for football enthusiasts in South Kalimantan during the 2026 World Cup.
The duel between the two sides, each known for their distinct playing styles, is expected to deliver an exciting spectacle.
Irwansyah, the Head of the Sports Journalists Section (SIWO) of the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) South Kalimantan, believes that France still holds the upper hand thanks to their abundance of quality players across all positions.
“France remains superior in terms of player depth and experience. However, Senegal cannot be underestimated as they possess impressive speed and physical strength,” he said on Tuesday (June 16, 2026).
He added that the Group I encounter is likely to be an open contest. Senegal is expected to rely on quick counterattacks, while France will focus on ball possession and structured build-up play through the midfield.
The presence of star players such as Kylian Mbappe, Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, and William Saliba is seen as a major advantage for Didier Deschamps’ squad as they seek to secure all three points.
On the other hand, Senegal still poses a threat with experienced players like Kalidou Koulibaly, Ismaila Sarr, and Nicolas Jackson, who are capable of troubling any defence.
While acknowledging that Senegal has the potential to spring a surprise, Irwansyah remains confident that the individual quality of the French players will ultimately decide the outcome of the game.
“I predict France will win 3-1. Senegal might score a goal, but France has more attacking options and are more clinical in converting chances,” he stated.
The France versus Senegal match is scheduled to take place at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, United States, on Tuesday (June 16, 2026) local time, or early Wednesday morning in Indonesia.
This encounter will serve as the opening match of Group I, which also includes Norway and Iraq.
(Banjarmasinpost.co.id/Muhammad Andra Ramadhan)
