As the countdown to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) intensifies, Senegal, the reigning champions, are meticulously fine-tuning their strategies with a friendly match against Niger slated as their sole preparation encounter.
With less than three weeks remaining before the grand football spectacle unfolds in Ivory Coast, the Lions of Teranga are gearing up to defend their title and secure a second consecutive triumph.
Commencing their pre-tournament training on December 30, Senegal, under the astute leadership of Coach Aliou Cissé, is charting a comprehensive preparation roadmap.
The pivotal element in this strategic drill is a friendly clash against Niger, set to transpire in Dakar on January 8, 2024, as reported by local Senegalese media.
While Niger failed to secure qualification for the continental showdown, their role in this preparatory duel is pivotal for Senegal.
Coach Aliou Cissé envisions leveraging the encounter to refine and implement a winning game plan, primed for the high-stakes challenges that lie ahead in the AFCON 2023.
However, amid the anticipation and preparation, the Lions of Teranga have faced setbacks in recent days.
Injuries have cast a shadow over the team’s key players, with Bouna Sarr already ruled out of AFCON 2023 due to an injury sustained at Bayern.
The unfortunate trend continued as captains Gana Gueye and Boulaye encountered injuries last Saturday and Friday, respectively.
As the official assessments of these injuries loom, Senegalese supporters remain hopeful for positive news.
The potential absence of key players poses a concern for Coach Aliou Cissé, and the final list, expected to comprise 27 names, adds an element of suspense to the proceedings.
The announcement of the squad is anticipated well before January 3, 2024, and Senegal, with its storied football legacy, braces itself for the challenges and opportunities that AFCON 2023 is poised to deliver.
