Senegal’s anthem has one of the best origin stories at the whole tournament: it was written by a poet who became president. The Lions of Teranga — African champions and 2002 quarterfinalists — beat Iraq 5-0 on June 26, 2026, on their way to the Round of 32, where they were eliminated 3-2 in extra time by Belgium. Here’s the story.
| Anthem | Pincez Tous vos Koras, Frappez les Balafons |
| Also known as | “Le Lion rouge” (The Red Lion) |
| Lyrics | Léopold Sédar Senghor |
| Music | Herbert Pepper |
| Adopted | 1960 |
| Language | French |
Senegal National Anthem Written by a Poet-President
The lyrics were written by Léopold Sédar Senghor — a celebrated poet, philosopher and Senegal’s first president — with music by Herbert Pepper. Adopted at independence in 1960, it’s a rare anthem penned by a genuine literary giant.
Even the title is musical: “Pincez Tous vos Koras, Frappez les Balafons” means “Everyone strum your koras, strike the balafons” — a direct call to play traditional West African instruments.
An Anthem That Celebrates Music Itself
How fitting for a soundtrack site: Senegal’s anthem is literally about making music. The kora (a 21-string harp-lute) and the balafon (a wooden xylophone) are pillars of West African musical heritage, and the anthem turns them into symbols of national unity and pride.
What It Means
The anthem rallies Senegalese of all backgrounds to stand together — the “Red Lion” symbolizing courage and the nation’s spirit. Read more on Wikipedia.
More World Cup 2026 Music
More World Cup 2026 anthems & music: Mexico · Brazil · Japan. African football fans should also read the Morocco national anthem story. See also our history of World Cup anthems and who sings the official 2026 song.
The Lions of Teranga
Senegal have grown into one of Africa’s great football powers. They announced themselves with a famous run to the 2002 World Cup quarterfinals and, two decades later, were crowned champions of Africa — backed by stars like Sadio Mané.
That rise gives their music-celebrating anthem an extra layer of pride. A song that opens by calling for koras and balafons is the perfect anthem for a nation whose fans bring rhythm, color and noise wherever the Lions of Teranga play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who wrote Senegal’s national anthem?
The lyrics were written by Léopold Sédar Senghor, a famous poet and Senegal’s first president, with music by Herbert Pepper.
What is Senegal’s anthem called?
“Pincez Tous vos Koras, Frappez les Balafons,” also known as ‘Le Lion rouge’ (The Red Lion).
What does the title mean?
It translates to ‘Everyone strum your koras, strike the balafons’ — a call to play traditional West African instruments.
When does Senegal play at the 2026 World Cup?
Senegal beat Iraq 5-0 on June 26, 2026, in the group stage, then advanced to the Round of 32 before losing 3-2 in extra time to Belgium.
Senegal at the 2026 World Cup: Quick Facts
| Group | Group I |
|---|---|
| Key Group Result | Beat Iraq 5-0 (June 26, 2026) |
| Final Finish | Eliminated in the Round of 32 |
| Round of 32 Result | Lost 3-2 in extra time to Belgium (Seattle) |
| Prior Best | 2002 World Cup quarterfinals; 2021/2023 Africa Cup of Nations champions |
Where to Stream / Listen: Senegal’s national anthem is available on major streaming platforms; a precise, verified official recording link was not confirmed, so none is included here to avoid linking to an unofficial version.
More Frequently Asked Questions
How far did Senegal go at the 2026 World Cup?
Senegal advanced from the group stage, beating Iraq 5-0, and reached the Round of 32, where they were eliminated 3-2 in extra time by Belgium after leading by two goals.
What instruments are named in Senegal’s anthem?
The anthem’s title calls for the kora, a 21-string West African harp-lute, and the balafon, a traditional wooden xylophone — both central to West African musical heritage.
Was Léopold Sédar Senghor only a politician?
No. Before and during his presidency, Senghor was an internationally recognized poet and a key figure of the Négritude literary movement, which makes his authorship of Senegal’s anthem especially notable.
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