Senegal head coach, Souleymane Diallo, has stated that his team feels no added pressure as they gear up to face Nigeria in their opening fixture of the 2024 African Nations Championship.
The Group D showdown against Nigeria is set to take place this evening (Tuesday) at the Amman Stadium in Zanzibar, with kick-off scheduled for 6pm Nigerian time.
This highly anticipated encounter marks the first-ever CHAN meeting between the two West African powerhouses.
Defending Champions Focused on the Task Ahead
Regarded as one of the marquee games of the group stage, the clash promises fireworks.
Despite entering the tournament as reigning champions, Diallo is confident his team remains focused and motivated rather than overwhelmed.
“Thanks for reminding me of our success in Algeria,” Diallo said in response to a question on the pressure of defending the title.
“The players are cautious of their mission and our performance last time out only serves as a source of motivation for us. Entering this competition as defending champions doesn’t add any pressure on us as many may think.
“We won the previous trophy and it’s in our cabinet. We rather feel we have been given a responsibility and we are ready to face the realities of our status.”
Respect for Opponents, Eyes on Progression
Diallo emphasized that the Lions of Teranga are taking a grounded approach to their title defence, stressing the importance of humility and respect for all group opponents.
“We are not here to defend the trophy in our keeping, we came to try to win another trophy, but for that we have to set the first objective which is qualifying from the group,” he stated.
“These days, African football doesn’t provide for teams to be classed as favourites. That is why we respect all the teams in our group. Sudan, Congo or Nigeria all have players that have earned the right to be in this competition. They are all good and respected by us.”
