Defending champions Senegal begin their title defence at the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a high-profile Group D clash against Nigeria on Tuesday at the Amani Stadium.
Head coach Souleymane Diallo says his team feels responsibility, not pressure, as they look to retain the trophy they won in Algeria two years ago. "Entering this competition as defending champions doesn't add any pressure on us," he insisted. "We feel we have been given a responsibility and we are ready to face the realities of our status." While confident in his side's ability, Diallo stressed respect for all their group rivals, which also include Congo and Sudan. "African football doesn't provide for teams to be classed as favourites anymore," he warned.
Midfielder El Hadj Malick added that the squad is motivated by expectations at home. "We know the Senegalese back at home expect a lot from us, so we are ready to continue the good run," he said.
Senegal hope to make a strong statement early and position themselves for a successful title defence.
