Kalidou Koulibaly, the defender for the Senegal national team and Saudi club Al-Hilal, expressed the formidable challenge his team anticipates in retaining the continental title, especially considering the high technical capabilities across all participating teams.
He affirmed that every team has prepared diligently for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, set to kick off in a few hours.
In media statements, Koulibaly added that the Senegalese national team aspires to secure a consecutive victory in the tournament.
He pointed out the players’ strong desire to present the championship trophy as a gift to the Senegalese fans.
The Senegal national team finds itself in Group C alongside Cameroon, Guinea, and Gambia.
They are scheduled to play their first match against Gambia on January 15, followed by a match against Cameroon on the 18th of the same month.
The group stage concludes with a face-off against Guinea.
It is worth noting that the Senegal national team holds the championship title, having clinched victory against the Egyptian national team in the final through a penalty shootout.
As they embark on their journey to defend their title, the Senegal squad, led by coach Aliou Cissé, acknowledges the competitive landscape and aims to overcome the challenges posed by fellow African football powerhouses.
The Africa Cup of Nations promises an exciting and intense competition, with teams striving to etch their names in football history.
Senegal’s quest for a back-to-back triumph sets the stage for an engaging tournament, eagerly awaited by football enthusiasts around the world.