Senegal defender Moussa Niakhaté urged his team to maintain focus, discipline, and vigilance as they prepare for their final Group stage match against Benin this Tuesday at 7pm GMT.
Speaking alongside national coach Pape Thiaw at a pre-match press conference, Niakhaté highlighted the importance of approaching the encounter with care.
The Lions drew 1-1 against DR Congo in their previous match and now aim to secure top position in the group.
Niakhaté stressed that Benin represents a formidable challenge despite their underdog status.
The West African side controls its own destiny and will fight to advance to the knockout stage.
“Every opponent deserves our respect, and that respect is what makes us strong,” Niakhaté said. “We approach this match with humility, especially against teams that can surprise.
Our plan is to play forward, stretch the defensive line, and focus on the small details.
Benin has quality players who know how to play, as we saw in their match against DR Congo. We must remain disciplined, focused, and vigilant to secure victory.”
Niakhaté also emphasized the need for concentration in key moments, warning that lapses could allow Benin to exploit opportunities.
He described the encounter as potentially tricky, urging his teammates to execute the coach’s tactical plan flawlessly.
Coach Pape Thiaw echoed the defender’s sentiments, noting that Senegal must balance attacking ambition with defensive stability.
The Lions aim not only to win but to assert dominance and send a message ahead of the knockout rounds.
With qualification on the line and group leadership at stake, Senegal faces a crucial test against a determined Benin side.
Niakhaté’s call for focus and rigor underlines the seriousness with which the team approaches this decisive fixture, ensuring the Lions maintain their reputation as one of Africa’s strongest sides.
