Senegalese winger Cheikh Tidiane Sabaly honoured to represent his country at AFCON 2025

Senegalese winger Cheikh Tidiane Sabaly expressed pride and motivation after attending the national flag presentation ceremony at the Palace of the Republic, less than a week before Senegal’s opening match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The young Metz player is making his first appearance at the AFCON, and the ceremonial handover of the national flag marked a historic and solemn moment in his career.

Sabaly described the event as both inspiring and energizing, highlighting the significance of representing Senegal on football’s biggest continental stage.

“Being received by the President and welcomed so warmly is a great honor,” Sabaly said. “It motivates us even more to give our all on the field and achieve our goals for the country.

Representing the Senegalese people is something we carry with pride, and this moment reinforces our responsibility and commitment.”

The 23-year-old emphasized the importance of national pride as a driving force for the team’s preparation.

Listening to the President’s speech, which urged the squad to embody the values and spirit of Senegal, Sabaly said the message strengthened the squad’s focus and determination.

He noted that the experience reminded the team of the expectations of fans across the country and the honor of wearing the national jersey.

As Senegal finalizes its preparations for the tournament in Morocco, Sabaly’s words underscore the blend of motivation, discipline, and collective responsibility that the Lions of Teranga carry into the competition.

His personal excitement reflects a broader sense of pride shared among players, staff, and supporters alike.

With Senegal aiming to defend its title and add a second star to its badge, Sabaly and his teammates are approaching the AFCON with a mixture of humility, ambition, and determination to deliver performances worthy of the nation’s trust.