Hope against the odds: Somalia chase historic point against Senegal in AFCON U17
Somalia may be bottom of Group C, but they’re not out of hope. As they prepare to face defending champions Senegal, the tone in camp is one of belief, pride, and a burning desire to make history with a first-ever AFCON point.
Somalia face defending champions Senegal tonight at the Ben M’Hamed El Abdi Stadium in El Jadida, Morocco from 8PM EAT, looking to secure their first-ever point at the U17 Africa Cup of Nations.
The fixture marks the final Group C match for both sides. Somalia sit bottom of the group on zero points following a 3-0 loss to Tunisia and a 5-1 defeat to Gambia. Senegal, currently second with two points, drew 0-0 with Tunisia and edged Gambia 1-0.
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Senegal are level on points with Tunisia, who lead the group on goal difference. Both teams are aiming to finish top, with Tunisia set to play Gambia at the same time in a different venue. Gambia, who sit third with three points, also have a chance of advancing. Somalia are already eliminated from contention.
Somalia, however, are determined to walk away with something from the tournament. The team’s assistant coach Muqtar Ali confirmed that all players are available for selection.
“Our last training went well and we have no injury concerns ahead of the final group game against Senegal,” said assistant coach Muqtar Ali. “All players are ready to contribute if selected. We are facing defending champions Senegal and our target is to collect our first point at AFCON. We will fight until the last minute. We appreciate the support so far by the fans and we urge them to keep supporting us. We will win, Inshaalah.”
Midfielder Liban Qalif also spoke ahead of the match, stating: “We are motivated and looking ready to get our first points. We are ready to play, score some goals and win.”
Senegal head coach Pape Ibrahima Faye warned against underestimating Somalia despite their position.
“We will not underrate Somalia. I know a lot of people are already saying we will easily beat them by many goals, but that is not the mentality we are getting into this game with,” said Faye. “We respect Somalia and we will approach this game with the seriousness it deserves, with the target of working hard to ensure we pick the three points.”
A win for Senegal would not only seal their place in the quarter-finals, but could also see them finish top of Group C depending on the result between Tunisia and Gambia - and potentially secure qualification for the upcoming FIFA U17 World Cup.
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