Senegal President, Macky Sall has lifted the spirit of the Teranga Lions with a social media message after the country was knocked out from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Host country Ivory Coast halted Senegal’s quest to defend the continental title they lifted in Cameroon two years ago, with a 5-4 penalty shoot-out win after playing 1-1 draw at the end of 120 minutes.
Moussa Niakhate missed his attempt from the spot as Ivory Coast successfully converted their penalties to advance into the quarter-final stage.
The defeat left Aliou Cisse’s squad in a sad state and President Sall has taken a bold step to cheer the team and he wish them well in their respective clubs.
Senegal had hoped to defend their maiden AFCON crown they won in Cameroon two years ago.
President Sall tweeted: “Dear Lions, You and your staff have my encouragement. Penalties are always random. Welcome back to your respective clubs and good luck for your future endeavours.”
Senegal will shift their attention to the June international break when they face the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mauritania in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The West Africans lead Group B with four points after two games, ahead of Sudan, DR Congo, Togo, Mauritania and South Sudan.
