AFCON 2025: Chérif Ndiaye clears injury scare to boost Senegal ahead of decisive DR Congo test

Chérif Ndiaye has shaken off injury concerns to hand Senegal a timely lift on the eve of their second group match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, after completing the entire training session with his team on Thursday.

The update was confirmed by the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), which disclosed that the striker, scorer of Senegal’s third goal in their opening win over Botswana, trained fully behind closed doors.

His involvement comes as a relief to the technical staff and supporters alike after doubts were raised over his condition earlier in the week.

Ndiaye had picked up a knock during the previous training session, sparking fears that he could be sidelined for the crucial meeting with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Those worries were partially eased on Wednesday when the forward was seen leaving the pitch without assistance, walking normally back to the team bus.

The FSF’s announcement that he was able to take part in the whole of Thursday’s session has now effectively put the matter to rest.

With Senegal preparing to face DR Congo in their second group-stage fixture, the striker is once again fully available for selection, providing a valuable attacking option as the Lions of Teranga seek to consolidate their position in the standings.

Ndiaye’s importance to the squad was underlined in the opening match, where his goal helped to seal a convincing victory over Botswana.

That performance set a positive tone for the defending champions, who arrived at the tournament intent on imposing their authority early in the competition.

The prospect of losing a key forward so soon after that statement win had threatened to complicate Senegal’s preparations.

The medical team’s cautious approach and the decision to monitor Ndiaye closely reflected the significance of the upcoming contest, widely viewed as one of the pivotal ties in the group.

Thursday’s closed-door session, designed to fine-tune tactical elements and manage workloads, has therefore delivered the best possible outcome.

Ndiaye’s ability to complete the programme alongside his teammates indicates that he has recovered sufficiently from the knock that disrupted his rhythm earlier in the week.

As Senegal enter the final phase of their build-up to the clash with DR Congo, the atmosphere around the camp has noticeably brightened.

The forward’s return to full training adds depth to the attacking options and offers reassurance that the squad is close to full strength.

The match itself is expected to present a stern examination of Senegal’s credentials, with DR Congo traditionally among the most physical and resilient sides on the continent.

Having secured maximum points from their first outing, the Lions of Teranga are targeting another assured display that would place them firmly on course for qualification.

For Ndiaye, the latest development is also a personal boost.

Having made an impact in the opening fixture, he now has the chance to build on that contribution without the lingering cloud of injury.

The FSF’s confirmation has therefore been received as a significant piece of good news in the Senegal camp, restoring confidence on the eve of a fixture that could define the trajectory of their group-stage campaign.