Senegal's rising stars shine bright: African champions secure convincing victory over Poland

Posted : 15 November 2023

In a captivating display, the African champions, Senegal, showcased their prowess in a resounding 4-1 victory over Poland, highlighting their collective strength after their opening-day success against Argentina. While Amara Diouf played a key role in the initial triumph, the match against Poland demonstrated the team's depth and tactical versatility. Polish coach Marcin Wlodarski acknowledged the challenge, stating, “We had a plan to negate the threat of one of their key players, but not the others.”

Despite Diouf facing tight marking, other players stepped up admirably for the current CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations holders. Idrissa Gueye emerged as the standout performer, securing a remarkable hat-trick and earning the Player of the Match award. Gueye, exhibiting the traits of a traditional center-forward, showcased his predatory instincts and effective spatial awareness, sealing victory with a powerful header.

Daouda Diong, a robust midfielder reminiscent of Yaya Toure, controlled the match's tempo and commended Gueye's performance. “Idri is a really good player,” he said. “He’s tall, and he won all his aerial duels today. That helped him to score those three goals.”

Poland's strategy of double-marking Diouf created space for Yaya Dieme, the team's principal playmaker for the day. Instrumental in the first three goals, Dieme's contributions down the right flank set the stage for Gueye's success.

Gueye, holding the Player of the Match award, acknowledged the team's adherence to the coach's instructions and their commitment to taking each game as it comes. The emphatic victory over Poland has propelled Senegal into the category of serious contenders, building on their credibility established in the win against Argentina.

Looking ahead, Senegal faces Japan in their next challenge, with midfielder Diong expressing optimism about their tournament prospects: “Of course it’s possible to win the tournament – that’s why we’re here. We’re here to lift the trophy, but let’s keep our feet on the ground. We’ve only played two games; there are still a few more to go, and we’ll have to remain as focused as possible.”

Gueye echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the team's desire to go far in the tournament while staying grounded and representing not just Senegal but the entirety of African football.

Senegal's rising stars shine bright: African champions secure convincing victory over Poland

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