CHAN 2024: Senegal Flags Off Team, Charges Them To Beat Nigeria

CHAN 2024: Senegal Flags Off Team, Charges Them To Beat Nigeria

Sampson Adedeji

Senegal’s Minister of Sports, Abasse Fall, has officially presented the national flag to the country’s home-based team ahead of their departure for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The symbolic event signals the start of Senegal’s title defence campaign, with the tournament set to run from August 2 to 30 across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Present at the ceremony were Abasse Fall, Minister of Labour, Employment, and Institutional Relations, representing the Head of State; Khady Diène Gaye, Minister of Youth, Sports, and Culture; and Augustin Senghor, President of the Senegalese Football Federation.

In his address, Minister Fall called on the players to show patriotism and determination.

“You are embarking on a mission, and the entire nation is behind you. We trust you to fight and ensure the Senegalese flag remains at the top of African football,” he said.

“I’ve already booked my ticket for the final because I have strong faith in your ability to retain the title.”

Federation president Augustin Senghor also commended the team’s preparation under the guidance of the technical crew.

 “We believe in you. You earned this trophy in Algeria through sheer hard work. Everything is in place for your journey, including a mini-tournament to help you acclimate. We know the competence of your staff and your capabilities,” he stated.

Senegal has been drawn in the same group as Nigeria in the upcoming tournament.