TotalEnergies CAF U17 AFCON: Senegal intensify preparations after unbeaten Morocco tour
Senegal’s U17 national team, the Lionceaux, have stepped up their preparations for the upcoming TotalEnergies CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following a successful friendly tournament in Casablanca.
The tournament, which saw Senegal finish undefeated, served as a crucial part of their build-up to the continental competition, set to take place from March 30 to April 19 in Morocco.
Back in Dakar, the squad has resumed intensive training sessions and scheduled a series of test matches to sharpen their form ahead of the tournament.
Head coach Pape Ibrahima Faye has expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress so far but insists there is still room for improvement.
"We won against Zambia 5-0, drew with Morocco, and defeated Egypt. It’s encouraging, but there is still work to be done. On a tactical, physical, and even mental level, the players are progressing well, but we must continue in this direction," Faye said.
Despite the promising performances in Casablanca, the technical staff remains focused on refining key aspects of the squad’s game, ensuring the players reach peak condition before the competition.
To maintain match fitness and tactical sharpness, the Lionceaux are set to play against Senegal’s U20 team, as well as clubs from Senegal’s Ligue 1 and Ligue 2.
These matches will provide the young squad with valuable experience against more physically and technically advanced opponents.
In addition to local fixtures, the team is considering participation in an international tournament in Turkey, which would offer them exposure to different styles of play ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON U17.
"We have submitted our action plan and hope to play in this tournament. It would be a great opportunity for our players to test themselves against different opponents," Faye explained.
With reigning champions Senegal looking to retain their U17 AFCON title, the preparation phase is seen as crucial in ensuring the team arrives in Morocco at their best.
The coaching staff and players remain focused on fine-tuning their tactical approach, strengthening team cohesion, and ensuring they are ready to compete at the highest level when the tournament kicks off in late March.