Senegal Cautions Against Overconfidence Ahead of Tunisia Clash
Senegal’s national football team has urged caution and composure ahead of their crucial Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2015 qualifier against Tunisia, warning against the dangers of early euphoria despite a strong start to their campaign.
Speaking to the press on Wednesday in Saly, just 70 kilometres from Dakar, several senior players echoed a common message: Tunisia is a formidable opponent not to be underestimated.
The Lions of Teranga currently top Group G following victories over Egypt and Botswana, but striker Moussa Sow, who plays for Turkish side Fenerbahce, emphasized that their position as group leaders means little against a team of Tunisia’s calibre.
“A team that went and won in Egypt — for those who understand the strength of the Pharaohs — is one that deserves respect and caution,” Sow said when asked whether Senegal should be considered favourites for Friday’s encounter.
His sentiments were echoed by Lokomotiv Moscow forward Dame Ndoye, who has been one of Senegal’s standout performers in the qualifiers so far. “At this level, playing at home doesn’t guarantee anything,” he said. “We must not let our two victories cloud our focus. Tunisia is a strong side, and we must respect them from start to finish.”
Hull City’s Mohamed Diamé also warned against complacency, stressing that previous results are no guarantee of future success. “The real danger is falling into a false sense of security after beating Egypt and Botswana. This time, we’re facing one of the top teams on the continent,” he said.
Senegal’s disciplined messaging comes as they prepare to face Tunisia at Dakar’s Léopold Sédar Senghor Stadium on Friday at 20:00 local time, in what is expected to be a high-stakes fixture in the third round of the CAN 2015 qualifiers.
The Tunisian team was expected to arrive in the Senegalese capital on Wednesday evening. Like Senegal, they remain undefeated in the group and are also eyeing qualification for next year’s continental tournament.
Both teams will be under pressure to maintain their momentum, but Senegal’s players and coaching staff are clearly focused on maintaining discipline and avoiding the psychological pitfalls that can follow early success.
With the group finely poised, Friday’s match could play a decisive role in shaping the path to Morocco for both nations.
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