Mbappé Jokes About Facing 'African Champions' Before Senegal Match
Short overview
Kylian Mbappé lightheartedly admitted uncertainty over which team is the reigning African champion before France's match against Senegal, saying 'Let's say the African champions.'
France striker Kylian Mbappé sparked amusement during a pre-match press conference when he referred to Senegal as the 'African champions' before catching himself and expressing uncertainty over whether Senegal or Morocco currently holds the title.
Mbappé's Lighthearted Comment
Speaking ahead of an international friendly between France and Senegal, Mbappé said: 'We face the African champions… ehm, I don't know if Morocco or Senegal won it at the end!' He quickly added with a smile: 'Let's say the African champions!'
Context of the Remark
The comment came as France prepared to take on Senegal in a friendly match. Senegal won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021, defeating Egypt in the final. However, Morocco made history by reaching the semifinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first African and Arab nation to do so. The confusion may stem from Morocco's recent high-profile performances on the global stage.
Reaction and Implications
Mbappé's remark was met with laughter from journalists and fans, highlighting the playful side of the 24-year-old star. The match against Senegal served as preparation for France's upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers, while Senegal used the fixture to gear up for their Africa Cup of Nations defense.
Senegal remains the reigning African champion, having won the 2021 AFCON tournament. Morocco, meanwhile, finished fourth at the 2022 World Cup, a historic achievement for African football.
More on these topics
Five Players to Watch as Al Ahli Face Auckland FC in FIFA
Al Ahli host Auckland FC in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2026 opener on 26 August. FIFA highlights five key players, including an English striker with 42 goals last season and a Japanese captain anchoring Auckland's defense.
Ayyoub Bouaddi joins Manchester City in €100m move
Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi has completed a €100 million transfer from Lille to Manchester City. The 18-year-old midfielder, who impressed at the FIFA World Cup 2026, will continue his development at the Premier League club ahead of the 2030 World Cup.
Wafcon 2026: Cameroon's Upset Victory Signals Shift in African
The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations saw Cameroon claim their first title with upset wins over Nigeria and Morocco, while Malawi reached the final. Experts discuss what this changing of the guard means for the sport's future.
FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2026: Auckland FC face Al Ahli in opener
The third edition of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup begins in August with Auckland FC facing Al Ahli. Five continental champions will compete for the title, with Paris Saint-Germain defending their crown. The final is set for a centralized venue later this year.
