Five African Nations That Have Defeated France Ahead of Senegal’s World Cup Clash

As the highly anticipated match between France and Senegal at the 2026 World Cup approaches, fans are reminded of the five African nations that have previously triumphed over Les Bleus.

Senegal will kick off their World Cup campaign against France on Tuesday at MetLife Stadium in New York.

Senegal’s Historic Victory

In a memorable encounter on May 31, 2002, Senegal secured a stunning 1-0 victory over France in Seoul, South Korea, thanks to a goal from the late Papa Bouba Diop. This match marked a historic debut for the Lions of Teranga in the World Cup, and they now seek to replicate that success against a French team eager for revenge.

2002 – ?? 0-1 ??
2026 – ?? ?-? ??

Another intriguing storyline unfolds as we approach #FIFAWorldCup 2026… pic.twitter.com/wPB90BFNcn

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) December 7, 2025

Senegal is among five African nations that have managed to defeat the two-time world champions (1998 and 2018) and current runners-up. Despite France’s overall dominance with 17 victories and seven draws against African teams, these nations have carved out their own success.

Other African Nations That Have Conquered France

Nigeria became the second African nation to beat France on June 2, 2009, during a friendly match in Saint-Etienne. South Africa inflicted France’s second World Cup defeat by an African team on June 22, 2010, winning 2-1 in Bloemfontein.

Fast forward twelve years, Tunisia achieved a notable victory over Les Bleus on November 30, 2022, with a scoreline of 1-0 during the World Cup in Qatar. Most recently, Ivory Coast joined this exclusive club by defeating France in a warm-up friendly on June 4 ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

If Senegal manages to secure another win on Tuesday, it would mark the sixth triumph by an African nation over France and the fourth such victory at a World Cup.