Senegal U20 head coach Serigne Saliou Dia has named a final squad of 23 players for a crucial pre-tournament training camp ahead of the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations, set to take place from 26 April to 18 May in Egypt.
The camp, held at the Toubab Dialaw training centre, is viewed as the final preparation phase for the junior Teranga Lions before they depart for continental competition.
It follows a productive pair of friendly matches against DR Congo, where Senegal secured a 2-0 win in the first game and held their opponents to a goalless draw in the second.
Coach Dia has largely maintained continuity in his selections, retaining the core group of players who featured during the two friendlies.
The squad’s composition reflects a strategic effort to build chemistry and cohesion among the players as they approach the high-stakes tournament.
This final training camp will run through to 12 April and represents a decisive moment for players to cement their place in the starting lineup.
It also gives the coaching staff a final opportunity to fine-tune tactics, assess individual form, and address any shortcomings ahead of what promises to be a fiercely contested competition.
Senegal have been drawn in Group C, where they will face Sierra Leone, Zambia, and Kenya in the group stage.
With just weeks remaining until kick-off, the focus now turns to ensuring that the team is physically and mentally prepared for what lies ahead in Egypt.
The U20 Africa Cup of Nations remains a vital platform for emerging African talents to announce themselves on the international stage.
For Senegal, who have consistently produced strong youth sides in recent years, expectations are high once again.
Coach Dia, who has led the team through various qualifying stages and preparatory matches, will be keen to guide his side deep into the tournament.
The current squad includes a blend of local-based talents and players from Senegal’s football academies, all of whom have been under close observation throughout the qualification and build-up process.
Their recent performances against a solid Congolese side have offered encouraging signs, particularly in terms of defensive organisation and attacking transition.
As the players train in Toubab Dialaw, emphasis will be placed not only on tactical preparation but also on team spirit and mental readiness.
The rigorous camp schedule is designed to simulate the demands of tournament football, with a clear focus on adaptability, resilience, and discipline.
Senegal’s campaign in Egypt begins with a challenging group stage that will test the young Lions from the outset.
Sierra Leone and Kenya, both known for their athleticism and unpredictability, pose unique challenges, while Zambia are expected to be strong contenders in the group. Success in the early stages will be crucial for momentum and confidence as the knockout rounds loom.
As the countdown to Egypt continues, all eyes will be on Serigne Saliou Dia’s squad and whether they can rise to the occasion and deliver another strong showing for Senegal on the continental stage.
