Abdullah Ndiaye, a star of the Senegal national team, expressed his joy at participating in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The defending champions, Senegal, commence their journey in the 2021 AFCON, hosted by Ivory Coast from January 13 to February 11, facing Gambia in their opening match.
Ndiaye remarked, “It’s a childhood dream to play in the Africa Cup of Nations.
When I was young, I watched the national team’s matches, wearing my jersey in front of the TV.
I witnessed Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly playing, and today, I am with them on the field.
When this happens, you can be proud of yourself.”
Continuing, he stated, “In one of the interviews, Koulibaly mentioned seeing me as a future coach for the national team.
Hearing that made me very happy.
In his guidance, he offers me a lot of advice, telling me that I must continue working and progressing, and I should not give up because I am part of the upcoming generation.”
Senegal begins their journey with a match against Gambia on January 15, followed by a crucial encounter against Cameroon.
They conclude the group stage by facing Guinea on the 23rd of the same month at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium in Yamousoukro.
The Africa Cup of Nations holds a special place in the hearts of African footballers, representing not only the pinnacle of their careers but also the realization of childhood dreams.
Abdullah Ndiaye’s sentiments echo the passion and pride that players carry when donning their national colors in this prestigious continental tournament.
As the tournament unfolds, fans worldwide eagerly await the spectacular moments that will unfold on the pitches of Ivory Coast, with the hope of witnessing new heroes emerge and childhood dreams realized.
