As Africa’s reigning runners-up, Senegal enter the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with high expectations and mounting pressure. After falling just short of lifting the continental trophy at the last edition, the Lions of Teranga are determined to start this new journey on the right foot. Their first test comes this Wednesday against Congo in Group I, a match that already carries significant importance for Aliou Cissé and his squad.
On the eve of the encounter, the Senegal head coach addressed the media during a press conference, focusing less on the opposition and more on his own team’s mindset and performance. For Cissé, the key to success lies not only in studying the opponent but, above all, in mastering their own game.
“You can never fully know a team, but we’ve done our homework and analyzed Congo,” he explained. “Still, what matters most is us — what we’re capable of producing on the pitch and how we impose our identity. The real question is whether we can play with intensity from the first minute to the last, staying focused on ourselves rather than worrying too much about the opponent.”
Cissé’s message highlights one of the main concerns that has accompanied Senegal in recent years: consistency. Despite boasting a talented squad filled with experienced internationals and top-level players, the Lions have sometimes struggled to maintain the same level of intensity and concentration throughout an entire match. The coach now wants his players to deliver a complete performance, maintaining pressure and discipline from start to finish.
Playing at home could work in Senegal’s favor. The match will take place at the Lat Dior Stadium in Thiès, where the Lions traditionally enjoy strong support. The home crowd is expected to provide extra motivation as the team looks to assert its dominance early in the group stage. A convincing victory would not only bring three valuable points but also send a clear message to the rest of the group.
Congo, however, should not be underestimated. Even if Senegal appear to be favorites on paper, AFCON qualifiers often produce tight and unpredictable matches. Cissé is well aware of this and has urged his players to approach the game with seriousness and determination.
Ultimately, this opening fixture will serve as an early indicator of Senegal’s readiness and progress since their last continental campaign. The coach hopes to see a side capable of combining quality, discipline, and relentless intensity over the full 90 minutes — or more.
Senegal will face Congo this Wednesday at 7pm GMT for the first day of the 2021 AFCON qualifiers, with the Lions eager to begin their quest for qualification on a strong and confident note.
