FIFA clears Assane Diao to represent Senegal in World Cup qualifiers

The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has confirmed that FIFA officially approved Assane Diao’s change of sporting nationality ahead of the national team’s recent World Cup qualifier against Sudan.

In a statement released by the federation, it was revealed that the decision was finalised on 19 March 2025 by the sole judge of the FIFA Football Tribunal.

This ruling came just three days before Senegal faced Sudan on 22 March in their qualification campaign for the 2026 World Cup.

The confirmation meant Diao was fully eligible to feature for the Lions of Teranga in that fixture.

The announcement follows growing questions from sections of the media and supporters regarding the status of several players who had recently switched their international allegiance.

The FSF moved to clarify the situation in order to eliminate speculation and prevent any concerns about the team potentially facing sanctions.

Alongside Diao’s approval, the federation also confirmed that goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf has had his request to change nationality validated by FIFA. In addition, Antoine Alpha Mendy has been cleared to represent Senegal in official competitions.

The only outstanding case involves Ilay Camara. His application remains unresolved as the Royal Belgian Football Federation has yet to provide FIFA with the necessary clarifications regarding his youth-level appearances. Until the matter is finalised, Camara’s eligibility for the Lions is on hold.

The FSF emphasised that FIFA’s decision in Diao’s case effectively removes any doubts about his participation in the match against Sudan.

There had been suggestions in some quarters that Senegal might risk disciplinary action if the player’s paperwork had not been properly validated before the game.

With FIFA’s confirmation, those fears have now been dismissed.

The federation’s statement underlined its determination to ensure full compliance with international regulations when it comes to player eligibility.

Officials stressed that all procedures had been followed correctly and that the FSF remained committed to working transparently with FIFA on such matters.

By securing approvals for Diao, Diouf and Mendy, Senegal can proceed with greater confidence as they continue their qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup.

The confirmation also brings an end to the uncertainty that had surrounded the squad’s composition in recent weeks.

For Diao, the ruling represents a significant moment in his career, as he now begins a new chapter at international level.

Having been officially recognised as eligible, he is expected to play a growing role in Senegal’s pursuit of a place at the next World Cup.

The FSF acknowledged the concerns raised by observers but insisted that the situation had always been under control.

The federation noted that FIFA’s confirmation validates the approach taken in managing nationality switches and ensures that the national team remains focused on the task ahead.

With this matter settled, Senegal’s players and coaching staff can now turn their full attention to the upcoming qualifiers, free from the threat of administrative complications.

The Lions will aim to build on their performance against Sudan and strengthen their position as the race for a spot in the 2026 finals intensifies.