Sénégal is gearing up for a crucial World Cup qualifying match against Togo on March 25, 2025, at the Abdoulaye-Wade Stadium in Diamniadio, deeply aware that only a win can keep their dreams alive for the 2026 tournament in the United States.
The Lions of Teranga, currently sitting third in Group B, feel the pressure following a disappointing goalless draw against Sudan just days prior. This latest result has left the team two points behind Sudan and just one point back of the Democratic Republic of Congo. With many matches still to play, Senegal must capitalize on their home ground advantage and secure all three points against a struggling Togo side.
Despite being undefeated in their last 21 matches across all competitions, Senegal's recent performance has been marred by an alarming number of draws. Coach Pape Thiaw has opted for a 4-3-3 formation for this match, signaling a shift towards a more aggressive approach in hopes to revitalize an underperforming attack.
The expected starters for this match will include reliable goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, as well as key defensive players like Kalidou Koulibaly and Moussa Niakhaté. Ilay Camara is set to make his debut as the left-back, complementing right-back Krépin Diatta. Meanwhile, the midfield will feature Pape Matar Sarr, Idrissa Gana Gueye, and Lamine Camara, with the attacking front led by Sadio Mané, alongside Habib Diallo and Assane Diao.
Seeking to improve their recent record, Senegal will confront a Togo team that has not tasted victory in 360 minutes across all competitions. The Eperviers have struggled in their World Cup qualifying campaign, failing to secure a single win thus far and sitting at the bottom of Group B with only four points. Coach Daré Nibombé’s squad will be missing some key players, including top scorer Fo-Doh Laba and focal point Bebou, further complicating their quest for points.
The odds at Winamax reflect Senegal's perceived superiority, placing their victory at an odd of 1.25, signaling strong belief among bookmakers in Senegal's capabilities to pull off a win. Meanwhile, the combined betting odds for a Senegal victory along with under 3.5 goals is listed at 1.68. This reflects expectations for both an efficient performance from Senegal's defense and a relatively low-scoring affair.
In the lead-up to the match, Pape Thiaw’s tactical changes have drawn attention. After the stalemate against Sudan, where creativity in attack was sorely lacking, adjustments were needed to inject some urgency into the side's style of play. The new formation seeks not only to solidify the defense against Togo’s sporadic attacks but also to provide ample support and options down the flanks, having been a point of emphasis following the disappointing draw.
Last faced in 2021, Togo's record against Senegal in recent years has been less than stellar, with their last win over the Lions dating back to 2004. As the two teams prepare to clash, the historical context adds an extra layer of pressure on the visitors who aim to reverse this trend, yet face the uphill task of breaking through a resolute Senegal defense.
Watching from an empty stadium due to ongoing restrictions, fans of both teams will be closely monitoring the match on broadcasts, with hopes high for Senegal to demonstrate their attacking prowess and return to winning ways after a frustrating performance last Saturday. Will Sadio Mané step up and lead his team to the needed victory?
The significance of this match cannot be understated, with Senegal needing not just a win but a commanding performance to boost morale and solidify their standing in World Cup qualifying. Given the stakes, the pressure is undoubtedly mounting on both teams as they hit the pitch later today.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, bookmakers note that while Senegal remains a heavy favorite, surprises are always possible in the unpredictable world of international football. Will history repeat itself, or will Togo defy the odds? Only time will tell as the match kicks off this evening.
