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Full box! Grand slam! Four matches, four wins, four clean sheets, 8 eights scored. Pape Thiaw made a success of his time as a temporary worker. However, the former Senegalese international is not getting carried away. He keeps his head on his shoulders and says he will continue to learn. As for his future, he prefers to remain attentive to the authorities, his Federation and the National Technical Directorate (DTN). Pieces chosen after its victory (2-0) against Burundi yesterday, Tuesday November 19, 2024.
“First of all, congratulate the players who listened and respected the instructions. Our goal was to finish with a victory, especially in front of our home crowd, because we already knew that we were going to finish in first place whatever the outcome of the match. So, let the players enjoy their victory, their qualification. It’s important.”
Absence of local player
“Even if we are qualified, I prefer that this type of match also serves as preparation for the CAN. We don’t do turnover just for the pleasure of doing it. We must plan towards the future. If I called players playing in the national championship, it’s because I know them, I have confidence in them. I know them because I follow them every weekend. They are excellent players. So, in the future, they will be called upon to come into play. Better, they could even be starters in this team.
Pape Thiaw recipe?
(Laughs). I’m still learning. But things become easy when you have players who have a good ear. We have great players, who are good tactically and technically. We certainly achieved great things during the African Nations Football Championship (CHAN). Now we are here to continue the work. Therefore, the Pape Thiaw recipe or method is not my place to talk about. I just keep working.”
Burundi’s performance
“We must congratulate the Burundi coach who, in just a few days, managed to put in place a unit that moves well. A team which is really very interesting and which caused us a lot of problems. This is a team to follow. And if we let the coach work, he can take this team very far.”
Assessment and confirmation at the head of the team
My record speaks for itself. He thinks he is positive even if he still has things to perfect, to improve. That’s four matches, four victories, 8 goals scored, not a single one conceded. Until then I am the coach. But, the moment I leave this room, the interim period will end. I leave it up to the authorities to decide and I will be at the disposal of my federation and the national technical direction.
