With the U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) fast approaching, Senegal’s coaching staff is fine-tuning the squad, evaluating both local prospects and promising young players based abroad.
Among those recently tested are three expatriate players from France, as the Lionceaux gear up for the competition set to take place in Morocco from March 30 to April 19, 2025.
Changes in the squad as AFCON nears
Preparations for the tournament are in full swing at the Jules François Bocandé Technical Centre in Toubab Dialaw, Senegal.
Now in their fifth week of training, the Lionceaux are undergoing intense drills, including training matches against local academies and clubs.
However, the squad has seen significant changes, with nearly half of the players who secured qualification through the UFOA A tournament no longer part of the team.
According to sources, some were dropped due to fitness concerns, while others exceeded the age limit, as confirmed by MRI tests on their left wrists—a standard method used to verify age eligibility in youth tournaments.
New faces: Three France-based prospects on trial
In an effort to reinforce the squad, head coach Pape Ibrahima Faye and his staff have been testing several new talents, including three expatriate players from France.
- Sofiane Gomis, a 16-year-old forward currently playing for Chamois Niortais U17, has joined the training camp and is being closely monitored.
- Ahmédine Tall, a midfielder for Viry Châtillon U17, is also in contention for a spot in the final squad.
- Tony Wade, a 16-year-old attacker from OGC Nice U17, has been assessed as well.
With the final squad list set to be announced soon, the trio will need to impress the coaching staff if they are to secure a place among the 21 players selected for the tournament.
Senegal’s Path to U17 AFCON glory
Senegal will kick off their AFCON U17 campaign on April 1 against regional rivals Gambia.
Their second match will be against Tunisia, before closing the Group C fixtures against Somalia in El Jadida.
To ensure optimal preparation, the Senegalese delegation is expected to travel to Morocco one week before the tournament begins, giving the team a final opportunity to fine-tune tactics and adapt to the conditions.
As the Lionceaux continue their rigorous build-up, competition for places remains fierce, with both local and expatriate players vying for the chance to represent Senegal on the continental stage.
