Defending champions Senegal will begin their quest for back-to-back continental titles when they face South Africa at the U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco on Thursday.
The tournament, which starts on Wednesday, May 13 and runs until June 2, brings together Africa’s top youth teams in what is expected to be another fiercely contested edition of the competition.
For Senegal, however, the spotlight will be particularly intense as the reigning champions attempt to confirm their growing dominance in African youth football.
The Young Lions have been placed in a demanding Group D alongside South Africa, Algeria and Ghana, with the latter having previously won the tournament in 1995 and 1999.
Senegal’s opening fixture against South Africa is scheduled for 1pm GMT, while Algeria and Ghana will meet later in the day at 4pm GMT.
Beyond continental glory, the tournament also carries global significance.
The eight teams that reach the quarter-finals will automatically qualify for the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.
The teams finishing third in their respective groups will then compete in play-off matches for the final two African qualification spots.
Senegal enter the competition carrying the weight of expectation after establishing themselves as one of the continent’s leading forces at youth level in recent years.
Their rise has been driven by consistent investment in development structures, tactical organisation and a generation of technically gifted young players.
The West Africans secured their place at the tournament after winning the WAFU A U-17 Championship in Bamako.
In the final, they defeated Mali 2-0 thanks to a standout display from Souleymane Commissaire Faye, who scored both goals to secure the regional crown.
That triumph reinforced Senegal’s reputation as one of the most complete youth teams in Africa.
The side has built a reputation for tactical discipline, defensive organisation and attacking efficiency, qualities that helped them claim the continental title in 2023.
Now, attention turns to whether this current generation can successfully defend the trophy and continue Senegal’s impressive rise on the African football scene.
Their immediate target will be securing qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, but expectations around the team suggest their ambitions extend far beyond merely reaching the quarter-finals.
As reigning champions and recent WAFU A winners, Senegal are widely viewed as one of the favourites to go deep into the competition once again.
The challenge, however, will not be straightforward.
Ghana and Algeria both possess strong traditions in youth football, while South Africa have steadily improved at junior level in recent years.
Still, Senegal arrive in Morocco with confidence and momentum.
Their blend of physical strength, technical quality and tournament experience could once again make them one of the most difficult sides to beat.
For African football observers, the tournament will also provide another glimpse into the continent’s future stars, with many young players hoping to use the competition as a platform to launch professional careers abroad.
