The head coach of the Senegalese national football team warned his players against underestimating the Sudanese national team, emphasizing the need to approach the upcoming match with the utmost seriousness when the two teams meet on Saturday in the round of 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations currently being held in Morocco.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, the coach stated that the Sudanese team is well-organized and capable of putting its opponents in difficult situations, stressing that full respect for the opponent will be key to handling the encounter.
He added: “We will enter the match with a great deal of seriousness and respect for the Sudanese national team. It is an organized team that knows how to complicate matters for its opponents, and we have prepared well, especially on the offensive front, because effectiveness in decisive moments will be crucial.”
The Senegal coach pointed out that the knockout stages represent a different phase of the tournament, saying: “From now on, every match will be difficult. We will need high mental strength and to be extremely effective when opportunities arise.”
He concluded his remarks by affirming his good knowledge of the opponent, explaining: “We will face a very disciplined and organized team. We have played against the Sudanese national team before, and it has delivered good performances, particularly during the qualifiers when it led its group for a long time. We will not take this match lightly at all.”
Senegal
Senegal is a West African nation with a rich history shaped by powerful pre-colonial empires, French colonization, and its role as a major hub in the transatlantic slave trade. It gained independence in 1960 and is known for its cultural traditions, such as the Wolof griot storytelling heritage, and its vibrant music and arts scene. The country is also home to significant sites like Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage memorial to the slave trade, and the Grand Mosque of Touba, a major Islamic pilgrimage center.
Sudan
Sudan, located in Northeast Africa, is home to ancient civilizations, most notably the Kingdom of Kush, which ruled from the city of Meroë and once conquered Egypt. Its modern history was shaped by Anglo-Egyptian colonial rule before gaining independence in 1956, followed by decades of civil conflict and the eventual secession of South Sudan in 2011. The country features significant archaeological sites like the Meroë pyramids and the ancient temples of Naqa and Musawwarat es-Sufra.
Morocco
Morocco is a North African country with a rich history shaped by indigenous Amazigh (Berber) cultures, Arab influence from the 7th century, and successive dynasties like the Almoravids and Almohads. Its cultural sites, such as the ancient city of Fez and the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech, reflect this blend of Arab, Amazigh, and European heritage. The country is also known for its well-preserved medieval medinas, kasbahs, and as a former French and Spanish protectorate that gained independence in 1956.
Africa Cup of Nations
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is the premier international men’s football competition in Africa, first held in 1957. It was founded by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and has grown from three initial participants to a major tournament featuring 24 national teams.
