Belgian midfielder Amadou Onana has spoken about the emotional significance of facing Senegal in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 1/16 final. Onana, who was born in Dakar, expressed his strong connection to the country.
"During the draw, I was at the club and thought: 'Just not Senegal. Let it be France or anyone else, but not Senegal,'" Onana told FIFA's official website. "I have a very, very strong connection with Senegal… Almost my entire family lives there, except for my mother, brothers, and sisters, who are in Brussels."
Onana visits Senegal annually to reconnect and recharge. Belgium advanced to the knockout stage as Group G winners. The highly anticipated match against Senegal is scheduled for July 1.