Senegal’s coach Cissé prefers AFCON glory over “crazy World Cup run”

Senegal’s coach Aliou Cissé has revealed he would prefer another African Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, over “a crazy World Cup run.”

In an interview with RMC Sport, the former football star expressed confidence in his team’s potential to win a FIFA World Cup title in the future.

However, Cissé emphasized his preference for winning another Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy over experiencing a competitive World Cup campaign.

The Senegalese legend, renowned for leading Senegal to their maiden AFCON victory in 2021, recalled the significance of the continental cup.

Despite guiding the team to the Round of 16 in the 2022 Qatar World Cup, Cissé’s focus remains on AFCON glory.

Senegal’s journey in Qatar was halted by a defeat to England, just as was the case when they lost against Ivory Coast earlier this year in the AFCON knock out stages.

When questioned about his priorities between AFCON and a deep World Cup run, Cissé didn’t hesitate to state his stance.

“I’d prefer to win another AFCON in Morocco in 2025, rather than have a crazy run in the World Cup.

“The AFCON is special. Even if you win a World Cup, an AFCON is still something special.

“I know that Senegal are capable of winning the World Cup in the future. That is clear. With this generation that are coming of age, they are capable of doing big things,” the Senegalese boss added.

He added that such progress can only start with his men “Qualifying for the upcoming AFCON in 2025,” and then having a great tournament to “bring back the title that alluded us in Ivory Coast.”