19-04-2025
Seynabou Kane, the ambitious captain of the Teranga Lionesses futsal team
Published: Saturday, 19 April 2025
At just 19 years old, Seynabou Kane is already establishing herself as a key figure in women's futsal in Senegal. Captain of the national women's team, she is set to take part in the first edition of the Africa Futsal Cup of Nations (AFCON), which will be held in Morocco from 22 to 30 April.
A path forged at Dakar Sacré-Cœur
Originally from Dakar, Seynabou Kane developed her game at the Dakar Sacré-Cœur club, a structure known for its commitment to football development. It was there that she crossed paths with Aïssata Seyck, former captain of the Teranga Lionesses and now assistant coach of the national futsal team.
The influence of Aïssata Seyck on Seynabou Kane's career is undeniable. The former captain passed on values of leadership, discipline, and tenacity to the young player.
'I was at Dakar Sacré-Cœur for two or three years, and Aïssata was my first coach. I found her again here in the national team, and it makes me really happy,' says Seynabou.
An ambitious captain
Despite her young age, Seynabou Kane did not hesitate to take on the captaincy of the national team — a role she embraces with determination.
'I want us to win the AFCON,' she says confidently.
For her, the competition is more than just a tournament; it represents a chance to make Senegalese women's futsal shine and showcase the talent of the Lionesses on the continental stage.
According to Seynabou, Senegal's strengths lie in their youth and technical quality:
'We have many talented young players, and we rely on our technical skill.'
This could be a key advantage in a tournament where agility and precision are essential.
A calm mindset ahead of AFCON
As the Women's Futsal AFCON approaches, Seynabou Kane and her teammates are entering the tournament with a calm and focused mindset.
'We are comfortable. We play, we enjoy ourselves, and there is talent in this team.'
These words reflect a strong sense of collective confidence and cohesion — both vital to overcoming the challenges ahead.
As a young captain, Seynabou also wants to inspire other young girls who dream of a career in futsal.
'There is a real opportunity for us. Maybe in the future, we can play in Europe. That's also my dream.'
A World Cup ambition
The continental tournament also serves as a gateway to the Women's Futsal World Cup.
'Playing in a World Cup means a lot to me. It means flying the Senegalese flag high and showing how far we've come.'
Qualifying for the World Cup would be a huge milestone for this rising generation of Senegalese futsal players.
If the Lionesses manage to win the AFCON, Seynabou already knows how she'll celebrate:
'I will run from my house to the palace.'
A powerful image that speaks to her pride in representing Senegal and the significance of this moment for her and her team.
One thing is clear: with a leader like Seynabou Kane, Senegal has every reason to believe in its chances.
