Senegal is preparing to experience a highlight of its football calendar by hosting the UFOA-A U17 tournament, scheduled in Thiès from October 17 to 31. This tournament, which brings together teams from zone A, has a double importance: not only will it crown the zone champion, but it will also serve as a qualifying phase for the next U17 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN).
For Senegal, the stakes are even higher. Finalists in the last UFOA-A tournament, where the Lionceaux lost to Mali, the Senegalese team bounced back by winning the U17 CAN the same year in Egypt. At home this time, the young Senegalese led by Pape Faye, full of confidence and determined to show their progress, hope to offer their public moments of glory.
The draw placed Senegal in Group A, alongside Guinea, Gambia and Liberia. Defending champions Mali, meanwhile, will face Sierra Leone, Mauritania and Guinea-Bissau in Group B. The format of the competition is simple: the top two teams in each group will qualify for the semi-finals. With such intensity, each match promises to be a true test of character for Africa’s young talents.
Seydou Sane, member of the executive committee of the Senegalese Football Federation, was keen to reassure during the preparatory meeting held yesterday: “We will take all the decisions required to ensure that the organization is a success.”
wiwsport.com
