Moussa Niakhaté : « Mauvais départ, mais le caractère a fait la différence »
Moussa Niakhaté spoke in the mixed zone after Senegal qualified for the quarterfinals of the Africa Cup of Nations. The defender praised the team's character and spirit, while also pointing out areas for improvement.
“We were not surprised by the opponent, because we have enormous respect for this team. As Krépin and the coach reminded us in the press conference, it is a quality team that we know very well, having faced them several times during the World Cup qualifiers,” he said.
According to Niakhaté, the team did not start the match in the best way: "Our start to the match was not satisfactory. But the strength of character we showed afterwards is very encouraging. The quality of play offered today is good and that must be emphasized."
He also identified areas for improvement in upcoming matches: "We need to work on the start of matches and the second half. In the opening minutes, they were superior to us, and right at the beginning of the second half, they created another big chance. These are details we need to correct for the next game."
The defender then emphasized the importance of teamwork and the substitutes: "We are very happy to be in the quarter-finals, whether against Mali or Tunisia. They will be two great teams and, whatever happens, we will have to put in a great performance."
He also expressed his pride in his brother Ibrahima Mbaye, who scored another goal in this tournament: "He's my little brother and the whole group is proud of him. He always delivers when he comes on as a substitute, and it's no surprise, he's showing the same level as at his club."
Finally, Niakhaté emphasized the strength of the group: “I want to congratulate all the new players who have contributed. This proves that our strength lies in the group. This isn't just talk, it's a reality. The team spirit is exceptional, and that's what allows us to go so far.”
Commentaires (3)
- une équipe se qualifie aux 8e sans marquer le moindre but : le Soudan
- une équipe se qualifie aux 8e sans gagner le moindre match : le Mali
- une sélection se qualifie aux 8e avec seulement 2 points : la Tanzanie
- encore plus salace, un pays se qualifie aux 1/4 sans gagner le moindre match : le Mali
Et si le Mali remportait la coupe sans victoire. Tout à fait possible. C'est l'Afrique dans toute sa splendeur mystique et ésotérique.
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