Senegal turn up intensity as CHAN title defence nears

CAF

09-07-2025

Senegal's preparations for their 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) title defence have taken a serious turn, with head coach Souleymane Diallo laying down clear tactical and selection markers following a pair of hard-fought friendlies against Guinea.
The defending champions concluded their two-match series with a 1-0 victory in Diamniadio on Monday, following a goalless draw in the first leg.
But for Diallo, it was less about the scoreline and more about readiness—both mentally and technically—as he seeks to sculpt a final squad capable of competing for back-to-back CHAN crowns.
'This wasn't a friendly series,' Diallo said bluntly after the win.
'We treated it like CHAN itself—intense, aggressive, and with high stakes. The players had to prove themselves under real pressure.'
Senegal's defensive performance over the two matches earned praise, with the team maintaining clean sheets and limiting Guinea to minimal chances.
'We stayed compact, nullified their midfield movement, and looked for quick transitions,' he said.
'The players followed instructions well, and that's exactly what we need going into the tournament.'
Yet it was Diallo's approach to squad selection that grabbed attention.
With a provisional list of 35 players currently trimmed down to 29 in camp, he made it clear that only those who are eligible and fully available will make the final squad.
'We're not a fitness club or stepping stone for contract hunters,' he warned.
'If a player is planning to leave for a trial abroad, he's out. The national team is for those committed to wearing the jersey during the tournament, not those using it as a platform for personal deals.'
He revealed that several players had already exited the group after internal monitoring revealed they were exploring overseas options during the CHAN tournament window.
'We investigate thoroughly,' Diallo noted. 'And if there's any doubt about availability, we don't waste time.'
The match series against Guinea provided exactly the kind of resistance Senegal's coaching staff was looking for. 'Guinea was no easy opponent,' Diallo admitted.
'They're quick, technically gifted, and dangerous between the lines. We leave with key insights—not just about them, but about our own readiness.'
As Senegal head into the final stretch of their preparations, tactical fine-tuning and squad cohesion will dominate the agenda.
With the tournament co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from August 2–30, the Lions of Teranga are bracing for a challenging Group C, which includes Uganda, Guinea, Niger, and South Africa.
But Diallo is clear: CHAN isn't about glamour or individual brilliance. It's about grit, team identity, and tactical commitment. And only those who buy into that vision will board the plane.