On the eve of Senegal's opening match in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Kalidou Koulibaly held a press conference. The captain of the Lions of Teranga stressed the need to distance themselves from peripheral debates and focus exclusively on the quest for another continental title.

Faced with the numerous reports circulating in recent weeks—from the World Cup draw to the controversies surrounding the schedule—the Senegalese defender was keen to emphasize the essential point: the focus must remain on the Africa Cup of Nations. “There has been a lot of information recently, but the most important thing is to stay focused. When you have a clear objective, it becomes easier. Personally, I’ve been thinking about this Africa Cup of Nations for several months now; I even go to sleep with the image of lifting it,” Koulibaly confided.

The captain acknowledged giving the players time to savor the World Cup draw before refocusing the group on the immediate objective. "I gave them a few days to experience this moment, but afterwards, we had to refocus on the Africa Cup of Nations," he explained authoritatively.

"I would never trade an African championship title..."

For Kalidou Koulibaly, the Africa Cup of Nations is a major competition, too often underestimated internationally. He was keen to convey a strong message of continental pride: "It's one of the most beautiful competitions in the world. Some don't respect it, but I deeply respect it. I know what winning an AFCON represents. I would never trade World Cup qualification for an African championship title."

Addressing the delays in player availability and scheduling constraints, the Senegalese defensive leader urged his teammates to disregard logistical issues and focus on the emotion of the game. "We must think about the joy of life that characterizes Africa, about this magnificent competition, and play it to the fullest to try and win it," he added.

Finally, Koulibaly made a passionate appeal to African football stakeholders, particularly the media, to promote the tournament. "Those who protect the Africa Cup of Nations must have the right to defend it. It is important that we, as Africans, defend our AFCON and that we make it shine positively throughout the world," he concluded.

Fully focused on the present, the Lions' captain assures that the objective is clear: to fight to win the 2025 AFCON, before thinking about future deadlines.