Sunday Oliseh hails Senegal’s remarkable consistency after dramatic win over DR Congo

Senegal’s 3-2 triumph against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Kinshasa has generated widespread reaction across African football, with former Nigerian international Sunday Oliseh among those leading the praise.

The Super Eagles legend, who lifted Olympic gold and the Africa Cup of Nations during his career, lauded Senegal’s remarkable progress over the past two decades.

Writing on his official X account, Oliseh described the Lions of Teranga as Africa’s most consistent force since the turn of the century.

“Meet Africa’s most improved and consistent national team since 2000. Bravo!!” he posted, noting his perspective as both a former Nigeria captain and a FIFA technical consultant.

A comeback that impressed the continent

The manner of Senegal’s victory ensured the match left a strong impression across the continent. Trailing 2-0, Pape Thiaw’s side produced a stirring comeback, overturning the deficit to seal a dramatic 3-2 success.

The performance reinforced Senegal’s reputation for resilience and quality, a combination that has increasingly defined their football identity in recent years.

Praise for the victory was not limited to Oliseh. Several former Senegal internationals also took to social media to celebrate what they described as a win built on courage and national pride.

Bafétimbi Gomis, the former France striker of Senegalese descent, was among the most vocal. “The Gaïndés proved it again in Kinshasa! From 2-0 to a historic victory: courage, character and national pride.

Bravo to the Lions and to Pape Thiaw, a genius strategist!” he declared.

Demba Ba, another former forward for the Lions, also weighed in. “Football is all about the pitch. As my Cameroonian friend often says: ‘Football… it’s on the ground.’ Only two more games, my young brothers. Senegal is winning,” he wrote, underlining his belief that the team is on course for further success.

Admiration for Senegal’s progress

The tributes highlight not only the impact of the victory itself but also the broader respect Senegal has earned within African football.

Since their breakthrough at the 2002 World Cup, where they stunned defending champions France, the Lions of Teranga have established themselves as a fixture among the continent’s elite.

That reputation has been built on more than isolated moments of brilliance. From back-to-back Africa Cup of Nations finals, including their maiden triumph in 2022, to consistent appearances at major international tournaments, Senegal has become a model of stability and ambition.

Their recent performance against DR Congo was seen by many observers as another demonstration of the traits that have brought them to the forefront of African football.

Oliseh’s comments reflect the admiration of a wider football community that has watched Senegal evolve from outsiders to genuine contenders on the global stage. His words carry additional weight given his long-standing involvement in African football both on and off the pitch.

Continuity at the core

For Senegal, continuity has become a defining characteristic. The country’s investment in youth development, coupled with strong leadership at both technical and administrative levels, has allowed them to sustain a standard that others across the continent have struggled to match.

The win in Kinshasa not only boosted their World Cup qualifying campaign but also served as a reminder of their resilience under pressure. By overturning a two-goal deficit away from home, the Lions reaffirmed their status as a side capable of responding in moments of adversity.

As Oliseh and other observers have noted, Senegal’s rise has not been built overnight. Instead, it has been the product of years of steady progress, underpinned by a growing pool of talent and a footballing culture that thrives on unity and belief.

The response from figures across the African game shows that Senegal’s success is no longer viewed in isolation. Their consistency is now seen as a benchmark, admired by peers and celebrated by legends of the game who recognise in the Lions of Teranga the qualities that define champions.