Fans regained confidence after the Lions' dominant 5-0 victory against Iraq in the final group stage match. For many, this performance suggests a promising run in this World Cup.

Thus, the Senegal-Belgium match, scheduled for this Wednesday at 8 p.m. GMT, is awaited with great optimism by these Senegalese supporters encountered in the streets of Parcelles Assainies.

A mechanic by trade, Pape Saliou Fall praised the coach's choices in the last match: "Pape Thiaw demonstrated that this team is capable of overcoming difficulties and bouncing back. He simply changed his starting eleven for the players to show their best. He took into account the criticism leveled against him. Now, it's up to the players to show the same determination against Belgium that they displayed against Iraq."

Serigne Diop, a shopkeeper in his thirties, urges the Senegalese coach to demonstrate the same responsiveness he showed during the match against Iraq. "Pape Thiaw implemented a very solid system and knew how to make the necessary changes at the right time. Modern football demands a great capacity for adaptation from coaches. A 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 formation could be effective against the Red Devils," he suggests.

Other fans believe the coach can still improve certain choices, particularly in his team selection. Issa Konaté, an IT specialist, would like to see some players get more playing time. "Abdoulaye Seck is doing the job, but Mamadou Sarr deserves a starting spot," he says. "Bara Sapoko Ndiaye also needs to be used more. He was convincing against the United States. If Pape Thiaw gives Iliman Ndiaye more playing time and brings on Ibrahima Mbaye in the second half, while maintaining the same collective discipline, Senegal can secure qualification for the quarterfinals."

The handling of Ibrahima Mbaye's situation is also dividing fans. Some believe the young player performs better when he comes on as a substitute. "Ibrahima Mbaye had some difficulties in his last match, but his talent is undeniable. I think he's more effective when he comes on in the second half. Every time he appears, he brings speed and unsettles opposing defenses. With a good tactical setup, Senegal can beat this Belgian team," says Aboubakry Diallo.

Abou Gora Sy disagrees. He believes the young player should be given a starting role. "Ibrahima should start the match. This will allow him to gain more experience and confidence. His talent is undeniable. Gana Gueye and Sadio Mané had an excellent match against Iraq, but young players also need to accumulate experience," he says.