Senegal manager Aliou Cisse says the football family are "saddened" by Bayern Munich forwardSadio Mane's absence but his side will "rise to the challenge" at the World Cup.

The African champions open their campaign against Group A opponents the Netherlands on Monday (16:00 GMT).

Former Liverpool striker Mane will miss the tournament due to a knee injury.

"We are not just talking about Senegalese people but people around the world and the whole football family is saddened," said Cisse.

"He represents the African continent as well as Senegal," he added. "I have received phone calls from around the world.

"All coaches build teams around their best player, that is also the case for us. We have a strong team as well, with experienced and young players ready to rise to the challenge."