Senegal’s ambitions for another Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title are unmistakable after head coach Pape Thiaw officially announced his 28-man squad for the 2025 tournament in Morocco. The Lions of Teranga, who lifted their maiden continental trophy in 2021, are once again considered one of the favorites as they prepare to navigate a challenging Group D featuring Botswana, Benin, and DR Congo.
The selection, unveiled on December 13, 2025, sends a clear message: Senegal is gunning for a second star. The blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent reflects a team built not just on reputation, but on depth, form, and the hunger to reclaim the African crown. With less than ten days to go before the opening whistle, anticipation is reaching fever pitch among fans and pundits alike.
Coach Thiaw’s squad is anchored by a formidable defensive core, a dynamic midfield, and a star-studded attack. In goal, the trio of Mory Diaw (Le Havre), Yehvann Diouf (Nice), and Edouard Mendy (Al Ahli) provides both experience and reliability. The defense, marshaled by Kalidou Koulibaly of Al Hilal and Moussa Niakhate of Olympique Lyonnais, is further bolstered by El Hadji Malik Diouf (West Ham United), Abdoulaye Seck (Maccabi Haifa), Ilay Camara (Anderlecht), Krepin Diatta (Monaco), Ismail Jakobs (Galatasaray), Antoine Mendy (Nice), and Mamadou Sarr (Racing Strasbourg).
Senegal’s midfield boasts a wealth of European experience, with Everton’s Idrissa Gana Gueye and Tottenham’s Pape Matar Sarr bringing top-flight pedigree. They’re joined by Villarreal’s Pape Gueye, Sunderland’s Habib Diarra, Lamine Camara (Monaco), and Pathe Ciss (Rayo Vallecano), ensuring the Lions can dictate play and break up opposition attacks with authority.
But it’s up front where Senegal arguably shines brightest. Coach Thiaw has named ten forwards, a testament to the nation’s attacking riches. Sadio Mane, the talismanic winger now at Al Nassr and widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest ever, leads the line. He’s joined by Nicolas Jackson (Bayern Munich), Ismaila Sarr (Crystal Palace), Boulaye Dia (Lazio), Cherif Ndiaye (Samsunspor), Iliman Ndiaye (Everton), Habib Diallo (Metz), Ibrahim Mbaye (Paris St Germain), Cheikh Sabaly (Metz), and the promising Assane Diao (Como).
However, not all is smooth sailing. Three key players—Assane Diao, Habib Diarra, and Ismaila Sarr—are currently nursing injuries. Diao picked up a thigh strain in Serie A action for Como, Diarra is in rehabilitation following groin surgery in September, and Sarr is on the mend after suffering an ankle ligament injury during Crystal Palace’s loss to Manchester United on November 30. Despite these setbacks, Thiaw remains optimistic. At a recent press conference, he expressed confidence that all three would be fit in time for the tournament, stating, "We have faith in their recovery and readiness. They are vital to our plans, and we expect them to be available for selection when the time comes."
This belief in his squad’s resilience is echoed in Thiaw’s broader outlook. Speaking to CAFOnline.com, he acknowledged the challenges ahead: "It will not be easy at all. These are all teams that have proven themselves. There are no more small teams in Africa, but we are Senegal, and we will do everything to be there." He added, "We know the strengths of DR Congo and Benin, but we must not underestimate Botswana. Our aim is clear—to win every game and progress as far as possible. Our goal is to clinch our second AFCON title, and we will fight to make it happen. We have shown what we are capable of, and we will leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of victory."
Senegal’s AFCON pedigree is undeniable. Their journey to their first title in 2021 was marked by resilience and quality, culminating in a dramatic penalty shootout win over Egypt after a goalless draw. The Lions had previously finished as runners-up in 2002 and 2019 and were quarter-finalists on home soil in 1992. Their qualification campaign for this edition was dominant, with five wins and a draw, joining a select group of unbeaten teams alongside Morocco, Algeria, and Egypt.
The 2025 tournament is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in AFCON history, with Morocco hosting and every group brimming with quality. Group D, in particular, is a minefield. DR Congo brings physicality and tactical nous, Benin is renowned for its organization and discipline, and Botswana, while less heralded, will be eager to spring a surprise and disrupt the established order.
Senegal’s schedule sees them open against Botswana at Tangier Grand Stadium on December 23, followed by a clash with DR Congo on December 27, and concluding the group stage against Benin on December 30. The regrouping of the squad kicks off December 15 in Diamniadio, as the players begin their final preparations for what promises to be a grueling campaign.
The squad list is a who’s who of African football talent. In addition to the headline names, the likes of Cheikh Sabaly, Ibrahim Mbaye, and Mamadou Sarr provide valuable depth. The inclusion of both established stars and fresh faces underscores Senegal’s commitment to continuity and renewal—a strategy that has kept them at the summit of African football in recent years.
Despite the injury concerns, the mood in the Senegalese camp is one of determination and unity. The coaching staff’s decision to stick with a proven core, while integrating ambitious youngsters, is seen as a masterstroke. As the countdown to kickoff continues, fans across Senegal and the wider footballing world are daring to dream of back-to-back AFCON triumphs.
It’s clear: the Lions of Teranga are not just showing up—they’re coming to conquer. With a squad brimming with talent, experience, and ambition, and a coach who knows what it takes to thrive on Africa’s grandest stage, Senegal’s pursuit of a second AFCON title is about to begin in earnest. The opening match against Botswana in Tangier on December 23 will set the tone for a campaign that could well define a generation. Football lovers, buckle up—Morocco 2025 is almost here, and the Lions are roaring for glory.
