As the kick off to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, Cote D’Ivoire 2023 fast approaches, CAFOnline launces a new and exciting feature titled “The Champions Speak” which will see players who have lifted the coveted TotalEnergies AFCON title sharing their thoughts on what it takes to win such a competition.
We kick off the series with Senegal’s Abdou Diallo – winner of the 2021 edition of the tournament with the Lions of Teranga.
After coming close to lifting the title in 2009 and 2019, the 2021 edition was do-or-die for Senegal when they faced north African powerhouses, Egypt in the final at Olembe Stadium on 6 February.
Protagonist of the epic victory, Diallo reveals the secrets of their achievement of this success.
You start your campaign with a victory against Zimbabwe (1-0) followed by two draws against Malawi (0-0) and Guinea (0-0). Were you expecting such results?
Yes, I expected that. Already during the playoffs we had some pretty rough matches. We
We were based in Bafoussam (west Cameroon) at altitude where we played at 2 pm.
There was also Covid during that time which affected some of our players which include
Kalidou Koulibaly, Saliou Ciss, Famara Diedhiou, Idrissa Gana Gueye, Fodé Ballo- Touré, Nampalys Mendy and Pape Matar Sarr. However, we had a strong fighting spirit that kept us together.
What was the strength of Senegal during this campaign?
Definitely our state of mind. We knew that individually, we had quality, like all the Senegalese generations before us. We were sure of our group, our solidarity and our collective strength. This is what allowed us to overcome this ordeal of the Covid and any other challenges.
In the semi-final against Burkina Faso (3-1), something happens, you score your first goal in the TotalEnergies AFCON. What did you feel at that moment?
I was in a parallel world at that time (laughs). It’s just amazing. The semi-final
was surely the most difficult match of our tournament. It was a close encounter with
very few chances created. The first goal made things a bit easier and from then on, we were flowing.
At what point during the competition did you say to yourself: “This year, the Cup is for us ?
Before the start of the competition we all talked about it during our meetings sas players. I think that’s what carried us to the end because we made a promise to ourselves that we would fight till the end. We had a real conviction that we were going to go all the way.
On February 6, 2022, you are in the final against Egypt (0-0,) at the Olembé stadium, do you expect such an atmosphere?
Frankly, I was surprised by the atmosphere. It felt like we were playing at home (laughs).
I think what worked in our favour was that Egypt eliminated Cameroon, therefore the Cameroonian people were on our side and It was beautiful to watch as it worked in our favour.
How did it feel coming back home with the trophy?
It was really amazing. It felt like the whole nation was there to celebrate. We were received by our families, authorities and everyone back home. It was a seven-hour parade which was one of the most beautiful memories of my career.
What did the title of African champion bring you?
From a sporting point of view, this is my barometer. I would love to relive a moment like this. On a human level, the connection with the country is totally different now. We have people who are very grateful to the efforts that we have made, which it truly amazing.
Can you describe the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations in three words?
I would say: Tough, emotional and thrilling.
