Senegal’s national football team suffered a second defeat in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, losing to Norway. The loss was particularly difficult for 17-year-old Ibrahim Mbaye, a promising young player who recently chose to represent Senegal over France, the country where he grew up. Mbaye, nicknamed “Titi parisien,” is highly regarded by fans and had been expected to potentially start the match. Following the final whistle, Mbaye was visibly distraught, remaining on the field in despair and even prostrating himself in a moment of anguish. Videos of his emotional reaction circulated widely on social media, deeply moving Senegalese supporters, many of whom criticized the coach’s decision not to play him from the start. Despite the disappointment, Mbaye’s visible passion for the national team underscored his commitment to representing Senegal.