Vieira embraces Senegal pressure as ‘22 million coaches’ demand success

Patrick Vieira says Senegal’s intense public scrutiny reflects the country’s ambition as he prepares his side for Sunday’s friendly against Comoros in Marseille.

The Senegal head coach was speaking on the eve of the match after criticism followed the team’s opening two fixtures in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

Senegal collected four points from their away games against Mozambique and Ethiopia, but Vieira acknowledged there were areas that needed improvement.

“High standards are part of elite sport; they are required every day,” Vieira said at a news conference.

“We are aware of our weaknesses and our strengths. We will be ready for the competition.”

Vieira also accepted the scale of the expectations surrounding the Lions, saying the country’s passion could be both a strength and a weakness.

“Senegal’s strength, which may also be a weakness, is that there are 22 million coaches,” he said. “It is simply passion. There are 22 million people who want to see Senegal go as high as possible.”

The former France international believes the pressure directed at the team is ultimately a sign of ambition rather than a burden.

“The pressure from the public is about having ambition,” he added.

Vieira said the attitude and work of his players, particularly during the difficulties they had faced, suggested the team was progressing in the right direction.

“When I see the attitude of the players and the work they have put in, with the difficulties we have had, I think we are on the right track,” he said.

He also insisted there was complete commitment within the coaching staff to meet the expectations placed on Senegal, saying there was “zero doubt” about their determination.

The meeting with Comoros will give Vieira another opportunity to develop his team and address the shortcomings identified during the opening two qualifiers.

“We have to continue working. We need high standards, organisation and a playing project,” he said.

“We are putting all of that in place. When you work well, success comes naturally.”