Senegal will head into the U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt without their star forward Amara Diouf, in a decision that has left fans across the country deeply disappointed.
Diouf, who rose to prominence during the U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Algeria, has been left out of the squad announced by national U20 coach Serigne Saliou Dia.
The 15-year-old Génération Foot striker was the undisputed hero of the 2023 U17 tournament, leading Senegal to their first-ever title in the category and finishing as the competition’s top scorer with five goals, including a memorable performance in the 2-1 final victory over Morocco.
However, despite resuming training recently after a long injury layoff, Diouf’s name was notably absent from the final squad submitted for the upcoming continental competition.
The technical staff deemed the youngster’s return too recent to warrant selection, opting instead for caution given his limited match fitness and risk of relapse.
The decision underscores a pragmatic approach by the Senegalese coaching team, who have prioritised long-term player welfare over short-term gains.
While Diouf’s absence is undoubtedly a blow—especially considering the momentum and confidence he brought to the team during the U17 campaign—Senegal remains confident in the group selected to defend their status as a rising force in youth football.
Coach Serigne Saliou Dia has retained a strong core from last year’s successful U17 side, ensuring continuity in both philosophy and chemistry.
Several of Diouf’s former teammates have made the step up to the U20 level and are expected to carry the momentum forward in Egypt.
With players already familiar with competitive continental football and possessing the resilience and flair that characterised their U17 title run, the squad still enters the tournament with legitimate ambitions.
The Senegalese Football Federation and fans alike had hoped that Diouf’s recent return to club training could open the door for a last-minute inclusion, but the coaching staff ultimately decided that the risk outweighed the potential reward.
It is a difficult moment for the young striker, whose rise has captivated national attention, but also a reminder of the fine margins that shape international competition.
Despite the setback, expectations remain high for the young Lions. With the tournament set to kick off in a few days, all eyes will be on how Senegal adapts without its talisman and whether the rest of the squad can rise to the occasion and extend the country’s proud record in youth tournaments.
Coach Serigne Saliou Dia’s official squad list for the tournament is expected to be published in full shortly, with preparations intensifying ahead of their first group-stage match in Egypt.
📋 La liste des lionceaux U20 retenus par le coach Serigne Saliou Dia pour disputer la Coupe d’Afrique des Nations U20 2025.
La compétition aura lieu du 27 Avril au 18 Mai 2025 en Egypte. #MankoWutiNdamli pic.twitter.com/4tyG32o7Gr
— Equipe du Sénégal (@GaindeYi) April 18, 2025
