Senegal’s national team will reveal its squad list for upcoming international matches on Thursday, according to an announcement by the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF). The squad, chosen by interim head coach Pape Bouna Thiaw, will be named without the traditional press conference, a change introduced since Thiaw assumed temporary leadership.
In a departure from the usual format, the squad list will be shared directly through FSF’s digital platforms, including social media and YouTube.
Thiaw is expected to make a brief statement on the Federation’s YouTube channel to discuss his selection process, but he will not face questions from the press until the day before Senegal’s opening match against Burkina Faso on November 13.
This press opportunity will occur in Mali, where the team will address the media ahead of their away fixture.
The Senegal squad announcement comes as the team prepares for its final two fixtures in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification campaign.
Already assured of a place in the tournament, Senegal will first face Burkina Faso on November 14 in Bamako, followed by a clash with Burundi on November 19 in Diamniadio, Senegal.
Both matches are set for a 7 p.m. GMT kickoff.
As the Lions of Teranga look ahead to the AFCON tournament, Thiaw’s squad selection is expected to reflect a balance between regular starters and potential new faces.
Thiaw’s interim role has seen him experiment with some younger talent alongside experienced players, but it remains unclear if he will retain this approach or opt for a more established lineup.
Observers are keen to see whether he will introduce emerging players into the squad to gain experience before the highly anticipated tournament.
Since his appointment, Thiaw has made adjustments in his communication style, opting for concise announcements over lengthy media interactions.
The decision not to hold a live press conference until just before the match against Burkina Faso has prompted speculation about the composition of the squad and any strategic shifts he may be considering.
This selection process marks a period of fine-tuning for the Senegalese team as they prepare to compete on the continental stage.
With the squad’s qualification already secured, these matches provide Thiaw and his coaching staff an opportunity to test various strategies, solidify team dynamics, and gauge the readiness of individual players under competitive conditions.
Senegal’s final two qualifying fixtures hold particular significance, not only as an opportunity for preparation but as a chance for Thiaw to solidify his tactical approach and squad depth.
Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching the selections he makes and the performances of his chosen players, assessing whether the interim coach’s approach can effectively carry Senegal through the demanding tournament schedule that awaits.
As Senegal eyes a successful campaign in AFCON 2025, Thiaw’s selections on Thursday will give an early indication of the squad’s readiness and the strategic direction he intends to pursue.
With a blend of emerging and seasoned talent, Senegal aims to harness its depth to maintain its competitive edge at the AFCON tournament next year.
