It is all about hard work and determination - Al Seyni Ndiaye
With just a day to go before all Egypt kicks off the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2024, captain of the Senegalese national team, Al Seyni Ndiaye speaks to CAFOnline about the team’s aspirations of not only defending their title, but representing Africa once again at the FIFA World Cup set to be hosted in Africa for the first time next year in Seychelles.
The reigning champions are drawn in Group B alongside Mozambique, Malawi and Mauritania.
CAFOnline.com: Senegal has been drawn in Group B with Mozambique, Malawi, and Mauretania. What do you make of the group?
It is often said that there are no longer small teams. For example, Mozambique had a very good performance in the 2021 edition. We beat them 4-1 in the semi-finals during the previous African Cup of Nations, but this time they will come with a spirit of revenge. It will be a difficult match, because Mozambique is one of the favourites. Malawi and Mauretania are also teams not to be underestimated. Our first match will be against Mauritania who will be quite tricky to beat because of their determination.
As defending champions, how do you deflect the pressure and just focus on the task at hand?
Yes, Senegal is often the favourite, but we don't really feel the pressure. We are preparing our game model according to our strengths and not worried too much about pressure. This edition will be very competitive, because all the teams have worked a lot. We have to show that we are the favourites, but also play with a strong mind and experience to make a difference.
You are the most successful team in Africa in the CAF Beach Soccer AFCON. Where does this strength to defend your title again and again come from?
Its all about hard work and determination. Since 2015, we have not lost in the African Cup of Nations. This strong mentality, combined with our physical and tactical conditioning, makes the difference. We hope to continue on this momentum and, God willing, keep our title.
Of the titles you won, which one would you say was the most special?
The one we won at home in 2021. Winning in front of our fans gives immense pride, especially after winning our previous away titles. It's an unforgettable memory.
What would a fourth consecutive title mean for you personally?
The Beach Soccer African Cup of Nations is of great significance to us, more especially due to the fact that we could defend our AFCON title in Cote d’Ivoire. It is therefore important for me and the entire team to do well in Egypt and restore pride in the people of Senegal.
You are a goalkeeper. What makes this position so crucial in beach soccer?
The goalkeeper is a key position. In beach soccer, goalkeepers are constantly targeted because of how easily it is to score from any place on the field. To win, you need a good Defence, and it starts with a good goalkeeper. He must have a strong mentality, good reflexes, and give confidence to the team. This is an important leadership role.
Are there new players in the team who you think will make a difference in this AFCON?
We have young talents such as Assan Bah and Sanou Laye Thiaw. They have so far shown remarkable potential and, if everything goes as planned, they could well be the revelations of this competition. We've trained them for upcoming challenges, and they're determined to stand out.
How do you see the future of beach soccer in Senegal and Africa, especially with the next World Cup to be played in the Seychelles?
Africa is hosting the next FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup and it is really great for out continent. We hope to participate, In Challah, because it would be unthinkable for such a competition to take place in Africa without the presence of Senegal. As I mentioned, the objective is for Africa to progress gradually, especially in Senegal, where the federation has just launched the Senegal Cup in parallel with the championship.
It is therefore important to organise competitions that go beyond the African Cup of Nations, such as competitions at the regional level in Africa. This will allow teams to progress and develop effectively.
It is necessary to organise many more competitions, which will benefit everyone. In 2025, Africa will be highlighted, and it is therefore crucial that African teams are competitive.