CHAN 2025: Senegal’s Daouda Ba vows relentless push for final spot against Morocco

Senegal defender Daouda Ba has pledged that his side will “give everything” to secure a place in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) final as they prepare to face Morocco in a decisive semi-final clash.

Speaking at a press conference alongside coach Souleymane Diallo on the eve of the encounter, the Dakar Sacré Coeur full-back underlined his team’s determination to build on their strong campaign.

Senegal are chasing a second consecutive appearance in the CHAN final, following their triumph in Algeria in 2023 under former coach Pape Thiaw.

“We will play against Morocco and we know it will not be easy,” Ba told reporters. “So we will manage better, and we will do our best. We know it is not easy. We will do everything to reach the final.”

Ba’s comments come at a time when Senegal have been lauded for their defensive solidity throughout the tournament. The Lions of Teranga have conceded just one goal in four matches, making them statistically the strongest defensive unit at this year’s competition.

Their resilience at the back has been central to their progress, and Ba has played a pivotal role in maintaining that record.

The defender’s standout performance in the quarter-finals against Uganda highlighted his importance to Diallo’s system. Solid in defence and composed in possession, Ba contributed decisively as Senegal edged past the host nation to book their place in the last four.

His presence, coupled with the team’s collective organisation, has given Senegal confidence that they can withstand the attacking threat posed by Morocco.

For Ba, the challenge of facing the Atlas Lions carries added significance. Morocco, winners of the 2018 and 2020 editions, are renowned for their attacking flair and depth, led by prolific forward Oussama Lamlioui, the competition’s top scorer. Senegal’s ability to contain such firepower could prove decisive in determining who reaches the final.

“We have prepared well for this game,” Ba added. “We know what Morocco are capable of, but we also know our strengths. Our team spirit, our discipline and our defensive record are our biggest weapons.”

Coach Diallo echoed his defender’s confidence but urged caution, reminding his players of the need for composure under pressure. “Every match at this stage is difficult,” Diallo said.

“Morocco are a top team with experience in this competition, but we have shown that we can compete at the highest level. Our goal remains the same: to reach the final and fight for the title.”

The semi-final meeting between Senegal and Morocco has been billed as one of the standout fixtures of the tournament, bringing together two of Africa’s strongest CHAN contenders. For Senegal, victory would not only secure a second straight final but also confirm their growing reputation as a powerhouse in African football at the local-based level.

As the Lions of Teranga continue their quest for back-to-back glory, Ba’s rallying cry embodies the mindset within the Senegalese camp: unwavering focus, defensive discipline and an unyielding desire to make history once again.