Senegal become first nation to win all three major African titles

Senegal are the first nation to win all three major African titles after clinching the African Nations Championship [CHAN] trophy on Saturday evening.

The Lions of Teranga stunned hosts, Algeria, 5-4 on post-match penalties at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers in front of 39,120 spectators.

The success of the Teranga Lions B team should give lessons to the rest of the continent’s teams, such as Bafana Bafana.

The success at CHAN means it is a clean sweep for the Teranga Lions.

Senegal are also the reigning Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] champions.

The North African team also basks in Beach Soccer AFCON title.

CHAN is exclusive to players based in domestic leagues across Africa.

LESSONS FOR BAFANA FROM SENEGAL’S SUCCESS

The Senegalese have entrusted their B team in local coach Pape Thaw.

The B team coach is a legend in Senegal. He was part of the squad that participated at the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan.

In contrast, most teams such as South Africa fail to tap from the knowledge of their legends.

The urge to win at all cost means that even when such greats are hired, they are not given enough time.

In contrast, the Senegalese have placed in Thaw who has been at the helm since 2021.

Thaw filled the void left by Joseph Koto who died on November 14 2021.

Thaw dedicated the win to the late Koto: “I dedicate this title to Joseph Koto. This was his wish.”

FAITH IN LOCAL COACHES PAY DIVIDENDS FOR SENEGAL

Thaw has emulated his Senegal senior team counterpart, Aliou Cisse, who won AFCON with the Teranga Lions last year.

Senegal Football Federation’s faith in locals is clear.

Cisse has been in charge of the team since 2015.

Bafana, have within the same seven-plus years, changed coaches thrice with no trophy won.

Bafana were conspicuously absent at the 2022 CHAN finals.

South Africa crashed out of the qualification race for CHAN.

Bafana lost 2-0 to Angola on the road in the first leg of the final qualifying round.

The second leg encounter played at Dobsonville Stadium ended in a 1-4 defeat for Bafana Bafana last September.

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