AS Pikine Sets Sights on African Glory with Ambitious Budget Plan
BBC Sport Africa – Dakar
Senegalese champions AS Pikine have unveiled an ambitious plan to raise 500 million CFA francs (approximately £640,000) as they prepare for their long-awaited return to the CAF Champions League. The club, which completed a historic league-and-cup double last season, is aiming to build on its domestic success with a strong showing on the continental stage in the 2014–2015 campaign.
Speaking at a press conference in the Dakar suburbs on Thursday, club president Modou Fall outlined the financial and logistical roadmap ahead of their Champions League debut since joining Senegal’s top flight in 2011. Fall emphasized that the funds would be raised through partnerships, the sale of club merchandise, and support from both the state and private sponsors.
“It is through partners, sales of club items, and support from the state or individuals that we intend to raise this sum,” Fall said.
Last season, AS Pikine operated on a budget just over 100 million CFA francs, which was enough to deliver an unprecedented double. But officials say a significantly larger war chest is essential if they are to challenge the continent’s elite and outperform recent underwhelming campaigns by Senegalese clubs in CAF competitions.
To bolster their squad, AS Pikine has recruited seven new players during the offseason, including international signings from Nigeria, Cameroon, and Benin. Although the financial details of their contracts remain undisclosed, the move underlines the club’s intent to build a team capable of making a deep run in the tournament.
The club’s preparations for the new season are already underway. AS Pikine will travel to Banjul, Gambia this Sunday for a winter training camp, continuing the momentum of last season’s unbeaten home run at the Alassane Djigo Stadium — a venue where they played 20 matches without defeat.
However, a logistical challenge looms. The Alassane Djigo Stadium is scheduled to undergo renovations due to the deteriorating condition of its artificial turf. This may force Pikine to play their home matches at an alternative venue, potentially impacting their strong home-field advantage.
Despite these uncertainties, the mood in the Pikine camp remains optimistic. With strategic planning, new talent, and the backing of fans and partners, the club hopes to make a bold statement in African football — and rewrite the narrative of Senegalese teams on the continental stage.
