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Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy admitted that a lack of concentration during critical moments cost his team in their 3-1 World Cup defeat against France on Tuesday.
Despite creating several early opportunities in the Group I clash in East Rutherford, the Lions of Teranga failed to capitalise before France found their rhythm.
Kylian Mbappe scored twice, and Bradley Barcola added a third to secure the victory for France, while Ibrahim Mbaye scored Senegal’s lone goal.
Toujours important de commencer par une victoire. Le chemin sera long mais nous sommes prêts. 🇫🇷🙏🏽💪🏽 pic.twitter.com/JhPbpUQopN
— Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) June 16, 2026
The 34-year-old Al-Ahli goalkeeper noted that elite opponents punish even minor lapses in focus, emphasising that players cannot take their eyes off the ball against world-class talent.
Mendy acknowledged that Senegal played too sluggishly in the first half and surrendered possession too easily throughout the match.
He urged his teammates to execute their game plan with greater consistency on both ends of the pitch.
Despite the opening loss, the former Chelsea shot-stopper insists that Senegal can still qualify for the knockout rounds.
He reminded his squad that they recovered from a similar opening-match defeat at the 2022 World Cup to reach the round of 16.
The African nation will now rest and shift their focus to their upcoming group matches against Norway next Monday and Iraq four days later.
