Everton star Idrissa Gana Gueye has shared his delighted at Senegal’s qualification for the World Cup 2026.
Senenews cover comments [from the ‘smiling but visibly moved’ Everton midfielder today.](https://www.senenews.com/actualites/idrissa-gana-gueye-sadio-mane-est-une-legende_562539.html) His country qualified for the World Cup this week with a resounding 4-0 win over Mauritania.
They secured first place in Group B of the African preliminaries. The comfortable win over Mauritania ensured they topped their section ahead of Congo DR.
That was one of the final two automatic qualifying spots for the 2026 World Cup net year. It will be their fourth appearance at the tournament in total and ensures a third straight appearance after also making it in 2018 and 2022.
Gueye is delighted to have made it and praise the grace of God as one of the reasons they have managed to do so.
“It’s the grace of God. We worked hard, listened to coach Pape Thiaw, and played as a team. This qualification is the result of the team’s unity and determination,” he said.
He was also keen to praise the performances of former Liverpool star Sadio Mane, who scored twice in this game and has been a driving force for his country for some time.
“Sadio is a living legend of Senegalese football. He continues to inspire a whole generation,” he added.
Now very much a veteran, Gueye remains a key player for Everton and his country. And it seems he’s determined to use his experience to help the youngsters wherever he can.
“Our mission is to pass on our experience to the younger players and to always aim higher, especially for the next AFCON,” he concluded.