Saint-Denis, France – The Stade de France is set to welcome back football this Saturday, March 28, 2026, with a friendly match between Senegal and Peru. This marks the first football fixture at the iconic stadium since the Coupe de France final between Paris Saint-Germain and Reims in May 2025. Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 PM CET (11:00 AM EDT).
Whereas the match itself is a significant event, it’s unfolding against a backdrop of controversy surrounding the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN). Senegal, despite initially celebrating a victory in the tournament, was recently declared the losing side on a technicality, with Morocco ultimately named the winner. Despite this decision, the Senegalese Football Federation intends to present the CAN 2025 trophy to fans during Saturday’s match, a move that has sparked legal threats from the Moroccan side.
Security Measures in Place for International Friendly
Authorities have announced a comprehensive security plan for the Senegal-Peru match, beginning at 12:30 PM CET and lasting until 8:00 PM CET. Supporters attending the game will face stringent security checks, including visual inspections of bags, physical pat-downs, and vehicle searches. The Prefecture of Police has issued an order outlining these measures, designed to ensure a safe environment for all attendees.
Seven pedestrian access points will be established at strategic locations around the stadium: the Esplanade de l’Écluse, the Rampe du Gai Logis, the Passage des Stades, and the Avenue du Stade de France. Three additional access points will be available for vehicles heading to designated parking areas.
The security order explicitly prohibits any form of protest or demonstration within the stadium perimeter. The possession of pyrotechnic devices, weapons (even replicas), and ammunition is strictly forbidden. Dogs of the first and second categories are not permitted in the vicinity of the Stade de France.
A Match Steeped in Significance for Senegal
The friendly against Peru represents more than just a preparation match for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It’s an opportunity for Senegal to connect with its diaspora and celebrate its recent achievements, despite the contentious outcome of the CAN tournament. The Senegalese team intends to showcase the trophy, a gesture that underscores their continued pride and passion for the game.
The match is sold out, according to the Fédération Sénégalaise de Football, meaning no tickets will be available for purchase at the stadium on the day of the game. This high demand reflects the strong support for the Lions of Teranga, who are eager to share their success with their fans.
Legal Challenges Loom Over Trophy Presentation
The planned presentation of the CAN trophy has triggered a legal response from Morocco. The president of the Moroccan lawyers’ association has reportedly sent formal notices to the Société d’exploitation du Stade de France and GL Events, threatening legal action and seeking a court order to prevent the trophy from being displayed. The Moroccan legal team argues that Senegal is not the rightful owner of the trophy and that its public display would be unlawful.
This legal dispute adds an extra layer of complexity to an already highly anticipated match. It remains to be seen how the Stade de France and GL Events will respond to the Moroccan legal challenge, and whether the presentation of the trophy will proceed as planned.
The Stade de France hasn’t hosted a football match since May 2025, when PSG defeated Reims 3-0 in the Coupe de France final. This friendly provides a welcome return of the beautiful game to the stadium, even if the circumstances surrounding the Senegal team are somewhat fraught with controversy.
One Paris Saint-Germain player, 18-year-traditional striker Ibrahim Mbaye, is included in the Senegal squad for this match. His inclusion offers a glimpse into the future of Senegalese football and provides a local connection for fans in the Paris area.
What’s Next for Both Teams
Following this friendly, both Senegal and Peru will continue their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Senegal will likely participate in further international friendlies to fine-tune their squad and tactical approach. Peru will also be looking to build momentum and solidify their team ahead of the tournament. The outcome of this match, while a friendly, could provide valuable insights into both teams’ strengths and weaknesses as they gear up for the World Cup.
Fans can stay updated on the latest news and developments regarding both teams through their official websites and social media channels. Archysport will continue to provide coverage of both Senegal and Peru as they progress in their World Cup preparations.
