Senegal’s coach unveils 24-Woman squad with Awa Diakhaté leading charge at Women’s AFCON

Senegal head coach Mame Moussa Cissé has confirmed a 24-player squad for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, featuring star forward Ndeye Awa Diakhaté, with the team set to open their campaign against DR Congo in Group A.

Cissé, who aims to improve on the quarter-final finish in 2022, highlighted a squad blending seasoned internationals with emerging talents.

He emphasised that overseas status alone would not guarantee selection, affirming, “Just because you play abroad doesn’t automatically mean you’re a starter.”

The squad features:

Goalkeepers: Adji Ndiaye, Khady Faye, Tening Sène
Defenders: Anta Dembélé, Adama Sané, Méta Camara, Wolimata Ndiaye, Marème Babou, Aissatou Fall, Mary Cissokho
Midfielders: Korka Fall, Safiétou Sagna, Ndeye Awa Diakhaté, Bineta Korkel Seck, Sadigatou Diallo, Métal Kandé, Fatoumata Dramé
Attackers: Haby Baldé, Nguénar Ndiaye, Mama Diop, Malado Diallo, Pascaline Bassène, Ndeye Awa Casset, Dieynaba Ndaw

Diakhaté returns to the fold, determined to atone for missing a penalty in the 2022 quarter-final shootout against Zambia, declaring, “We’re not coming just to participate… this time, we’re here to win.”

Her club exploits for Olympique de Marseille and leadership roles in youth development bring both experience and determination to the national side.

Cissé described the group, which includes DR Congo, Morocco, and Zambia, as challenging but manageable, stressing the importance of taking each match seriously while maintaining belief in the team’s ability.

“We know each of these opponents will fight hard to qualify,” he said. “But we believe in our preparation, and we believe in our players.”

This year’s tournament represents more than just a quest for a continental title. For Senegal, it is a chance to showcase the growth of its women’s football programme and to inspire a new generation of players at home.

Cissé underlined the broader ambition behind this campaign, pointing out that success in the competition could help propel the team toward future international events and strengthen the domestic women’s league.

He also urged the people of Senegal to show their support throughout the tournament. “Our young women need to feel the strength of an entire nation behind them,” he said.

“Whether it’s through prayers, encouragement, or support in the stands, every gesture matters.”

With the opening match fast approaching, Senegal’s Lionesses will focus their remaining days on tactical refinement and team cohesion.

The blend of experience and youth in the squad is expected to be a key asset, as the team seeks not only redemption from past shortcomings but also a historic performance on the continental stage.

Senegal’s ambitions are clear: they are not travelling to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations to simply participate; they intend to make a lasting mark.

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— wiwsport (@wiwsport) June 24, 2025