Senegal Goalkeeper Apologizes After World Cup Exit
Senegal goalkeeper Moré Jao apologized on Instagram after the team's World Cup elimination, accepting responsibility for Belgium's stunning 3-2 extra-time comeback from a 2-0 deficit in the Round of 32.
Moré Jao, Senegal's goalkeeper, posted an Instagram apology to fans, saying he bears responsibility for the team's elimination from the 2026 World Cup Round of 32, despite having been in a favorable position to advance.
In the Round of 32 match, Senegal led Belgium 2-0 but Belgium remarkably equalized in the final minutes of regular play, forcing a 2-2 draw. Belgium then scored again during extra time to secure a 3-2 victory.
Jao said in his statement: "Ever since I was a child, I dreamed of wearing the Senegal national team jersey at the World Cup. I imagined this moment thousands of times. I never thought it would end like this, so empty. Unfortunately, things didn't go as planned, and I don't need to watch the video again to know I share responsibility for what happened. I'm sorry I couldn't take you further. I will carry this pain for a long time, but my love for this shirt and the pride of representing my country will never change. Thank you to all Senegalese for your love both in victory and in defeat."
Jao is normally Senegal's backup goalkeeper, but got his chance after first-choice keeper Édouard Mendy was injured during the group stage. He started in the match where Senegal lost to Norway 2-3, then kept a clean sheet in a 5-0 victory over Iraq before facing Belgium.
