U20 AFCON: Senegal Coach Calls for Patience Ahead of Opening Clash with Nigeria
The final phase of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off tonight in Dakar, with host nation Senegal taking on tournament favourites Nigeria in what promises to be a thrilling curtain-raiser.
With the weight of home expectations resting on his young squad, Senegal U20 coach Joseph Koto has urged the public to show patience and unwavering support as the Lion Cubs prepare to face the Flying Eagles.
“We ask the public to be patient and help the players,” Koto told the Senegalese Press Agency (APS). “The players must feel the presence of the public behind them.”
Koto, a former senior national team manager, stressed the psychological importance of opening matches, describing them as moments that need to be carefully “managed” from a mental standpoint.
“An opening match is often psychological. If everyone stays behind the team for 90 minutes, then it will work,” he said.
Facing one of Africa’s most successful youth sides, Senegal know they must rise to the occasion if they are to start the tournament on the front foot. Nigeria, who boast a rich history at youth level, come into the competition with high expectations and a squad full of talent.
Despite the pressure, Koto believes his players can turn the occasion into an advantage.
“It’s a match, and it will remain a match. We will give the best of ourselves,” he added.
The 2025 U20 AFCON, hosted across Dakar and Mbour, will feature eight nations battling for continental honours as well as qualification spots for the FIFA U20 World Cup in New Zealand. The top four finishers in this year’s tournament will earn their place on the global stage.
As anticipation builds ahead of the opener, Senegal will be hoping home support can inspire the Lion Cubs to a memorable start.
