6 July 2026 - The first goal of the Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026 tournament was scored by Ousmane Bakhayokho, an athlete from Special Olympics Senegal in the opening match against France. Senegal clearly kept control of the game beating France 6-0.
The early work of Bakhayokho, an 18-year-old midfielder from Kaolack, has come as no surprise to coach Serigne Abdoul Aziz Diop who says Bakhayokho stands out for his calm composure on the pitch, leadership and team spirit. Afterall, the footballer has taken part in five National Football Championships.
The third of five siblings, Bakhayokho joined Special Olympics Senegal in 2015 at the age of 7. He considers Special Olympics Paris 2026 Football World Cup to be the crowning achievement of his young career and he’s off to a strong start.
On the women’s side, Special Olympics France Unified Partner Louana Exilie, scored in the first goal. It was a good day for the co-captain who, hours before the match, recited the Athlete’s Oath during the tournament’s opening ceremony. France held on to their lead beating Cote D’Ivoire 5-0.
