Published:
Wednesday, 06 March 2024
South Sudan are hoping to stun favourites Senegal in their opening match as the 13th edition of the African Games when they clash in their Group B match on Tuesday.
This encounter marks a significant moment for both sides, with the former champions aiming to build on past successes while South Sudan make their debut in the football competition of the African Games.
Senegal enters the tournament as former African Games champions, having clinched the title in 2015 in Congo-Brazzaville.
Led by coach Serigne Saliou Dia, who previously guided the Senegal team to victory in 2015, the squad boasts several players promoted from their triumphant U17 World Cup campaign in Indonesia.
Coach Dia, seeking his second title, expressed confidence in his team’s preparation and readiness for the challenge ahead.
“We don’t know our opponents going into, but we are going to calm to ensure we are able to play our game well and make opponents uncomfortable,” stated Coach Dia.
Echoing his coach’s sentiments, Senegal player Serigne Falou Diouf emphasized the team’s ambition to win the competition.
“The dream is to win the competition, and being one of the favorites is going to be positive pressure for us to win,” remarked Diouf.
On the other side, South Sudan approaches the tournament with determination and excitement as they make their debut appearance.
Coach Bilal Felix highlighted the significance of this opportunity for his team, stating, “This is the first time we are playing in the African Games, and we are glad to be participating… We respect Senegal because of their status in African football, but we don’t fear them.”
South Sudan player Joseph Loro echoed his coach’s sentiments, expressing the team’s ambition to make an impact despite their status as one of the youngest nations in Africa.
“Senegal is one of the champions of youth football in Africa. South Sudan is one of the youngest nations in Africa, but we are waiting to play them and make names for ourselves,” affirmed Loro.
As the two sides prepare to clash on the pitch, the stage is set for a compelling battle between youth and experience, ambition and determination.
Senegal and South Sudan will each aim to make a statement in their opening fixture, setting the tone for their African Games campaign and laying the groundwork for future success on the continental stage.
Source link : https://www.cafonline.com/news/south-sudan-eyeing-shock-win-over-senegal-in-african-games-match/
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Publish date : 2024-03-06 08:00:00
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