AFCON 2015: Papy Djilobodji Downplays ‘Group of Death’ Hype Ahead of Senegal’s Return
Senegal finds itself in what many have dubbed the “Group of Death” at the upcoming 2015 Africa Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea, facing continental giants Algeria, Ghana, and a rejuvenated South Africa. But for Papy Djilobodji, the FC Nantes defender, there’s no room for fear or fatalism.
In an interview with wiwsport, the Senegalese international took a measured approach:
“I think all the groups are complicated. When you approach an African Cup final phase, there are no easy groups. In Africa, there are no small teams.”
Djilobodji emphasized the importance of preparation and staying focused on Senegal’s own performance, rather than over-analyzing their formidable opponents.
“What matters is the preparation to be done to arrive at the competition in optimal condition. The technical staff will get down to it. As for us, we must continue performing at our clubs, avoid injuries, and stay fit.”
Rather than dwell on reputations or group difficulty, the centre-back is keeping a team-first, confident mentality:
“Personally, I never focus on the opponent. Whether the group is judged easy or difficult, I don’t dwell on it too much. The most important thing is our level. We know how to play football—we’ll have to prove it on the pitch with the determination needed to win, no matter the opponent.”
Senegal opens its campaign against Ghana on January 19, 2015, in Mongomo, with ambitions of making a strong return to the competition they missed last time around.
