Senegal coach Pape Thiaw has dismissed Morocco’s home advantage ahead of Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final, insisting supporters cannot influence the outcome once the match begins.
The Teranga Lions are bidding to reach their third AFCON final in four tournaments, having finished runners-up in 2019 before winning the title in 2021.
Thiaw, who took temporary charge following the departure of Aliou Cissé, acknowledged Morocco’s favoured status but remained defiant about his side’s chances.
“Morocco are favourites, no doubt. But the fans will stay in the stands. The rest is decided on the pitch,” the 51-year-old said at the pre-match press conference.
The former forward was part of Senegal’s side that lost the 2002 final on penalties to Cameroon, meaning Sunday offers him the chance to win as a coach what eluded him during his playing days.
Thiaw emphasised the broader significance of the showpiece occasion whilst warning both teams must rise to the challenge.
Thiaw emphasised the broader significance of the showpiece occasion whilst warning both teams must rise to the challenge.
“Today, it’s the image of Africa that is at stake. We must not spoil it,” he said.
The former forward was part of Senegal’s side that lost the 2002 final on penalties to Cameroon, meaning Sunday offers him the chance to win as a coach what eluded him during his playing days.
Thiaw also stressed the fundamental equality of the contest despite the hostile atmosphere expected.
“Playing the host nation is never easy because of the crowd, but on the pitch, it’s 11 against 11,” he added.
The coach also praised Morocco’s achievements, noting that “they reached the World Cup 2022 semi-finals” which “raised the level of African football, and tomorrow we will face a strong team that will do its best to win”.
Thiaw’s emphasis on the 11-versus-11 nature of the contest represents a clear psychological counter to Morocco’s perceived home advantage, insisting that the match will ultimately be decided by the quality of the players rather than the noise of the crowd.
Despite the off-field distractions, Senegal remain focused on their quest to add another continental crown to the trophy they won in Cameroon four years ago.
Sunday’s final promises to be a fascinating tactical and psychological battle between two of Africa’s finest sides, with Thiaw’s calm dismissal of home advantage set against Regragui’s acknowledgement of the emotional challenge facing his players.
The Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal kicks off at 20:00 GMT on Sunday in Rabat.
