Senegal U20 Profile: Lionceaux aim to defend U-20 AFCON crown
With a growing reputation for producing elite youth talent, the Lionceaux of Teranga are aiming to retain their title and extend their dominance in African youth football.
Under the leadership of Serigne Saliou Dia, the West African giants blend tactical discipline with attacking flair in their pursuit of back-to-back continental triumphs.
SENEGAL
Reigning African champions at U-20 level, Senegal head into the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025 with the ambition of defending their title and reinforcing their dominance in African youth football.
The Lionceaux of Teranga have built a solid reputation in recent years, combining disciplined structures, dynamic transitions, and an increasingly rich talent pipeline. Under the guidance of new head coach Serigne Saliou Dia, Senegal's objective is clear: to maintain their winning momentum and continue nurturing the next generation of stars.
Their triumph in Egypt in 2023 was historic, marking their first-ever U-20 continental crown.
HOW THEY QUALIFIED
Senegal qualified for the tournament by winning the WAFU Zone A Championship for the second consecutive time. They defeated Sierra Leone 2-0 in the final, with goals from Cheikh Tidiane Thiam and Ibrahima Dieng sealing the victory.
HISTORY IN THE TOTALENERGIES CAF U-20 AFCON
Senegal are the reigning champions, having lifted their first-ever U-20 AFCON title in 2023 in Egypt. That campaign was flawless – winning every match including a 2-0 victory in the final over Gambia.
They had previously reached the final on three occasions (2015, 2017, 2019) but had fallen short each time.
KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH
Serigne Fallou Diouf – The promising centre-back from Génération Foot is highly regarded for his anticipation, tackling, and composed build-up play.
Ibrahima Dieng – Nicknamed 'Pauleta' for his clinical finishing, the striker is a constant threat with his intelligent movement, eye for goal, and composure in front of goal.
Pierre Dorival – A tenacious defensive midfielder from Olympique Lyonnais, Dorival adds steel and structure to the midfield. Known for his interceptions and precise passing, he plays a key role in maintaining balance and breaking up opposition attacks.
COACH AND TACTICAL APPROACH
Serigne Saliou Dia, who led Senegal to the U-17 AFCON title, is now in charge of the U-20 side. A tactically astute coach, he is known for adapting his strategies to suit the opposition while maintaining a clear identity of attacking, structured football.
Dia emphasizes discipline, team cohesion, and high-intensity pressing, while encouraging creative freedom in the final third. His background in youth development and proven track record make him a valuable figure in Senegal's football structure.
TOURNAMENT AMBITIONS AND GROUP ANALYSIS
Senegal have been drawn into Group C, where they will face DR Congo, a technically solid side with great ambition and momentum, DR Congo could pose a real threat in the group.
Ghana are a structured and cohesive team, Ghana have made consistent progress in youth football and cannot be underestimated.
Central African Republic is one of the dark horses of the tournament, Central African Republic have a physical, direct style and will be motivated to make history.
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