AFCON 2025: Gana Gueye insists the tournament started the moment Senegal came together

Idrissa Gana Gueye has set a clear tone for Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign, insisting the tournament began for the players the moment they came together as a group.

The Senegalese midfielder spoke with conviction as the Lions continue their build-up to AFCON 2025, underlining a mindset shaped by responsibility, pride and ambition. He made it clear that the squad approach the competition with full focus long before the opening whistle.

Gueye drew strong emotion from the national flag presentation ceremony, where the President addressed the team ahead of their departure. He said the words spoken during that moment carried real weight and reinforced the bond between the players and the nation they represent.

According to the experienced midfielder, the affection and pride shown by the Senegalese people now fuel the group’s motivation. He believes that connection creates an obligation to perform, pushing every player to give maximum effort as Senegal prepare to defend their continental crown.

As one of the senior figures in the squad, Gueye stressed that determination runs through the entire camp. He said players and staff share the same hunger and the same desire to succeed, with no room for complacency despite Senegal’s status as defending champions.

Recalling the President’s message, Gueye highlighted a phrase that stayed with him. He said the reference to the love and pride of the people stirred powerful memories and strengthened his eagerness to compete. That moment, he explained, reminded him why representing Senegal goes beyond football.

Gueye described the start of the AFCON journey as the instant the players packed their bags and reported for national duty. From his perspective, preparation, mentality and unity define the tournament as much as matches themselves.

He made it clear that his determination reflects a collective attitude rather than an individual stance. He said the entire group feels ready, driven and committed, including the technical and medical staff who work behind the scenes.

This shared resolve, rooted in unity between the team and the nation, now forms the foundation of Senegal’s ambitions at AFCON 2025. As the Lions prepare to step onto the continental stage, Gueye’s message sends a strong signal of intent from a team that believes its campaign began long before kick-off.