Senegal’s national football team, the holders of the African Cup of Nations, have included striker Boulaye Dia in their 27-man squad for the upcoming tournament in the Ivory Coast. Dia’s inclusion comes despite concerns about his fitness following a thigh injury sustained during a Serie A match between his club Salernitana and AC Milan. While Italian media reports raised doubts about his availability, coach Aliou Cisse expressed confidence that Dia would be ready in time for the team’s first match against Gambia.
In addition to Boulaye Dia, Senegal’s squad includes two other players with question marks over their conditioning. Defender Youssouf Sabaly, who plays for Real Betis, has returned to training after a lengthy absence since August. Meanwhile, midfielder Nampalys Mendy, based in France, has been sidelined with an injury in recent weeks. Despite these concerns, both Sabaly and Mendy have been included in the squad for the African Cup of Nations.
The defending champions, Senegal, will begin their title defense against Gambia on January 15. After facing Gambia, they will go on to play two more matches in Group C, against Cameroon and Guinea. The outcome of these group stage matches will determine whether Senegal progresses to the knockout stages of the tournament.
Senegal’s squad for the African Cup of Nations comprises three goalkeepers, including Edouard Mendy who plays for Al Ahli Jeddah and has been in solid form this season. The defensive lineup consists of players such as Kalidou Koulibaly, who plays for Al Hilal, and Abdou Diallo, currently at Al Arabi. In midfield, the team boasts the likes of Idrissa Gana Gueye from Everton and Cheikhou Kouyate from Nottingham Forest. Finally, the forward line features prominent names like Sadio Mane from Al Nassr and Ismailia Sarr from Olympique de Marseille.
The inclusion of players with injury concerns adds an element of uncertainty to Senegal’s preparation for the tournament. While coach Aliou Cisse has expressed confidence in their readiness, only time will tell how effective they will be on the pitch. Defending the title will be no easy task, as numerous talented teams from across the continent will be vying for the African Cup of Nations crown. Senegal will need all their players, including those with conditioning question marks, to perform at their best if they hope to retain their title. The tournament promises to showcase exciting football and fierce competition, and fans around the world eagerly await the action.