Senegal vs Peru: Lions Return with Trophy Parade Despite Morocco Dispute – Where to Watch & Kick-Off Time

PARIS – The Senegal national football team returns to action this Saturday, March 28, 2026, facing Peru in a friendly international at the Stade de France. The match, kicking off at 5:00 PM local time (17:00 CET / 11:00 AM EDT), comes just over two months after a controversial conclusion to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where the title was initially awarded to Senegal but subsequently re-attributed to Morocco by the CAF.

This friendly isn’t just a preparation match; it’s a stage for celebration, albeit a complicated one. The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has planned extensive festivities beginning at 3:00 PM local time, including a 45-minute show featuring prominent Senegalese artists Booba and Youssou N’Dour. Despite the CAF’s decision, the trophy – officially belonging to Morocco – is scheduled to be presented to the approximately 80,000 expected spectators at 3:45 PM. This planned presentation is occurring despite threats of legal action from a Moroccan legal representative, according to reports.

The situation surrounding the Africa Cup of Nations title remains contentious. The initial awarding of the championship to Senegal followed a dramatic penalty shootout victory over the Ivory Coast. However, the CAF later overturned the result, citing irregularities in the officiating. The decision has sparked outrage among Senegalese fans and officials, who maintain the fairness of their team’s victory. The Senegalese team has formally challenged the CAF’s appeal board ruling, according to recent reports.

Match Details: Senegal vs. Peru

The Stade de France will host the encounter between the Lions of Teranga and the Peruvian national team. For Senegalese fans, and those following the team internationally, the match will be broadcast live on RTS1, the national broadcaster of Senegal. Unfortunately, no French television channel has acquired the broadcasting rights for the game, leaving French-based fans reliant on streaming options or international coverage.

Senegal, currently ranked 12th in the FIFA world rankings as of January 19, 2026, will be looking to reaffirm their status as one of Africa’s leading footballing nations. The team boasts a squad filled with talent, including captain Kalidou Koulibaly and star forward Sadio Mané, the team’s all-time leading scorer with 53 goals. Idrissa Gueye holds the record for most caps, with 129 appearances for his country.

This match provides an opportunity for Senegal to move forward and focus on future competitions. Pape Thiaw, the current head coach, will be keen to assess his squad and build momentum ahead of upcoming qualifying matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The team is coming off a successful run in the African Nations Championship, where they were crowned champions in 2022.

The Lions of Teranga have a rich history in African football, having won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021 and achieving a quarter-final appearance at the 2002 FIFA World Cup – a landmark achievement for the nation. They also have a dominant record in the Amílcar Cabral Cup, winning the tournament a remarkable eight times.

For Peru, the match represents a valuable opportunity to test themselves against a top African side. While details regarding their squad and tactical approach remain limited, the encounter will undoubtedly serve as a useful preparation exercise for their own international commitments.

The atmosphere at the Stade de France is expected to be electric, with a large contingent of Senegalese supporters anticipated to be in attendance. The combination of on-field action and the planned celebratory events promises a memorable occasion for fans of both nations, even amidst the lingering controversy surrounding the AFCON title.

Following this friendly, Senegal’s attention will turn to their qualifying campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The team will be aiming to build on their recent successes and maintain their position as a force in African football. The next steps for the Senegalese team will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.