Senegal’s head coach, Pape Ibrahima Faye, has named his squad for the upcoming U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, with several notable absences compared to the team that triumphed in the UFOA/A Tournament last year.
Title defence begins with a new-look squad
Nearly two years after securing their first U17 AFCON title by defeating Morocco 2-1 in the final in Algeria, the Senegalese squad is preparing to defend its crown.
With a new generation of players under Faye’s leadership, the Lion Cubs will begin their campaign next Tuesday against Gambia, before facing Tunisia and Somalia in the group stage.
Despite being among the tournament favorites, Senegal will have to navigate their title defence without several key players who played crucial roles in their regional success.
The squad list, released on Wednesday, revealed the absence of nine players who were instrumental in winning the UFOA/A Tournament against Mali last November in Diamniadio.
Significant changes from the UFOA/A tournament
Among the most notable omissions is right-back Hyppolite Ndour, a regular starter throughout the UFOA/A Tournament.
The Keur Madior defender will not feature in Morocco, alongside Moussa Cissé, Mahamet Ba, Mbaye Ibrahim Ndiaye, Madické Ndiaye, El Hadji Malick Lo, Tafsir Ousmane Diop, Youssou Mané, and El Yamar Ndiaye—the latter having scored twice in the final against Mali.
Mouhamed Dabo’s injury a major setback
Perhaps the most significant absence is that of Mouhamed Dabo, who captained the Lion Cubs for much of the UFOA/A Tournament.
The Be Sport Académie midfielder recently celebrated his 17th birthday but is dealing with a minor injury.
Following medical evaluations, the Senegalese coaching staff opted to exclude him from the squad to avoid any risks.
Dabo’s absence is a blow, given his standout performances in the team’s regional triumph.
New leaders to step up
Despite these absences, Faye has retained several key players who impressed during the qualification campaign.
Goalkeeper Vincent Gomis and team captain Ibrahima Sory Sow—both from Génération Foot—have made the cut, along with Dakar Sacré-Cœur midfielder El Hadji Sow.
The latter, wearing the No.10 shirt, was one of the standout performers in the Zonal Tournament and is expected to play a key role in Senegal’s title defence.
While the squad may be missing familiar faces, Senegal remains a strong contender in the tournament.
The Lion Cubs will need to quickly adjust to their new setup as they embark on their quest to retain the U17 AFCON crown.
