Senegal Faces Fan Absence at World Cup Due to Visa Denials

The Senegalese national football team is preparing for the World Cup amid the regrettable absence of fans who were denied visas by U.S. authorities. Abdoulay Sow, the coach of the team, stated that this decision significantly impacts the team's morale and performance, especially as they aim to overcome this handicap.

Senegal will play its first two group matches in the U.S., starting against France on Tuesday in New Jersey. This marks Senegal's fourth appearance at the World Cup, but it is the first time they will compete without an official fan group present.

The team previously reached the quarter-finals in 2002 and the last 16 in Qatar four years ago. Additionally, Senegal recently won the Africa Cup of Nations but is currently involved in a legal battle regarding a penalty controversy from the final against Morocco.

Despite these challenges, Sow remains focused on the World Cup, stating that the team's performance will be determined on the pitch.