Senegal international Pape Gueye has revealed that the key to the Lions of Teranga’s success lies in their strong team spirit and unity, rather than individual brilliance.
The Villarreal midfielder, who has become an important figure in Aliou Cissé’s squad, insists that Senegal’s players see themselves as a family first, creating an environment where competition is healthy, and personal egos are left aside for the good of the team.
“In our team, there is no ego. We are all competitors, and of course, we all want to play. But if you don’t start, you know it’s because there’s someone better suited for that match. We respect that, and we support each other,” Gueye said.
Gueye, who chose to represent Senegal in 2021, admitted that he had some reservations before joining the national team but was quickly surprised by the positive atmosphere in the squad.
“I heard stories about tensions in other African teams, but with Senegal, it’s the complete opposite. Here, we are a family. Everyone is pulling in the same direction,” he said.
The midfielder credited former captain Kalidou Koulibaly and senior players like Sadio Mané and Idrissa Gueye for setting the tone and maintaining a selfless and disciplined culture within the squad.
“Kalidou Koulibaly once told me that if he had known Senegal was like this, he would have joined earlier. When you’re outside, you don’t really know what it’s like. But once you’re in, you realize it’s something special.”
Senegal’s team spirit played a huge role in their AFCON 2021 triumph, where they claimed their first-ever continental title.
The players’ togetherness was evident in their celebrations, and their bond helped them navigate tough moments in the tournament.
Heading into AFCON 2025 in Morocco, Senegal will once again rely on their collective strength to reclaim the title.
They have been drawn in Group D alongside DR Congo, Benin, and Botswana, and will be among the tournament favorites.
“We are not just teammates; we are brothers. That’s what makes us strong. We fight for each other, and that is why we will always be a difficult team to beat,” Gueye emphasized.
With African football becoming increasingly competitive, maintaining unity in the dressing room is often the difference between success and failure.
Senegal’s squad understands this, and Gueye believes their selfless approach will be key to their performance in AFCON 2025 and beyond.
“Talent alone doesn’t win tournaments. The best teams are the ones that play for each other. That’s what Senegal has, and that’s why we will always compete at the highest level,” he concluded.
For Senegal, their greatest asset is not just their quality on the pitch but their brotherhood off it—a bond that could once again carry them to AFCON glory.
