As the excitement builds across East Africa for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), defending champions Senegal’s home-based national team has wasted no time in laying the groundwork for their title defence.
The Teranga Lions A’ began a crucial two-week residential training camp on Monday, June 30th, at the Jules François Bocandé Technical Development Centre in Toubab Dialaw, signalling their serious intent to retain their continental crown.
With the CHAN tournament set to kick off on August 2nd across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) is taking no chances. This early camp, running until July 11th, is designed to give their squad a vital head start in tactical drills, fitness conditioning, and team cohesion.
A strong contingent of 28 players, predominantly drawn from the top tiers of the Senegalese domestic league, have been called up for this initial phase.
Reigning Ligue 1 champions Teungueth FC lead the pack with four representatives, a testament to their dominance in the local scene.
Other prominent clubs like Génération Foot, AS Pikine, Casa Sports, and ASC Jaraaf have also contributed key talent, ensuring a blend of experience and youthful dynamism.
Senegal, who lifted the CHAN trophy in Algeria in 2023, faces a formidable challenge in Group D, alongside continental heavyweights Nigeria, Sudan, and Congo.
Their group matches are scheduled to be played in Zanzibar, setting the stage for some enthralling encounters.
This pre-tournament camp will be crucial for the coaching staff to assess the form and fitness of their players, most of whom have been standout performers in their respective domestic competitions.
A series of test matches are expected to follow this intensive training period, providing valuable game time before the final squad is announced.
The CHAN tournament, exclusively for players active in their national leagues, remains a critical platform for emerging African talents to gain international exposure.
As the defending champions meticulously prepare, East African football enthusiasts can look forward to a fiercely contested tournament showcasing the best of homegrown talent.
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