With Senegal preparing for the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations final against Tanzania, midfielder Souleymane Commissaire Faye has emerged as one of the central figures behind the defending champions’ impressive campaign in Morocco.
The 17-year-old playmaker has earned the nickname “The Commander” among teammates and observers during the tournament, reflecting both his influence on the pitch and his growing authority within the squad.
Senegal will face Tanzania national under-17 football team in Tuesday’s final as they attempt to retain their continental crown and secure successive U-17 AFCON titles.
Faye has been at the heart of Senegal’s run to the final, controlling matches from midfield while demonstrating maturity beyond his years. His performances have attracted attention throughout the competition, but the midfielder has remained focused on the collective objective of lifting the trophy.
On the field, Faye has become known for dictating the tempo of matches, organizing play and maintaining tactical discipline for Senegal national under-17 football team.
Off the pitch, he has also taken on a leadership role inside the squad as Senegal prepare for one of the biggest matches of their young careers.
The midfielder is already familiar with several members of the Tanzanian side after previous meetings during the CAF African Schools Football Championship.
“It’s true that we know several Tanzanian players from the 2025 African Schools Football Championship,” Faye explained. “That can be an advantage because we know their personalities and playing style, but they also know us.”
Despite that familiarity, Faye believes the final will be determined as much by mentality and tactical discipline as by technical ability.
<img class="size-medium wp-image-13504" src="https://african.football/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/souleymane-300×250.jpg" alt="Souleymane Faye leading Senegal’s charge towards U17 AFCON glory” width=”300″ height=”250″ /> #Souleymane Faye leading Senegal’s charge towards U17 AFCON glory“I think this final will mainly be a tactical and mental battle. We will have to stay focused until the very last minute.”
The Senegal midfielder expects Tanzania to provide a difficult challenge because of their organisation and discipline throughout the tournament.
“Against a disciplined team like Tanzania, we must remain calm, follow the coach’s instructions and take every opportunity that comes our way to make the difference.”
Senegal’s younger generation have also drawn inspiration from the country’s senior national side, with the Teranga Lions currently preparing in the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to Faye, support from the senior players has provided additional motivation during the tournament.
“It is a huge source of pride. The Lions are our role models and our inspiration. Knowing that they watched our match against Morocco and supported us increased our motivation. It shows that we are all part of the same family.”
While Faye has emerged as one of the standout performers of the competition, he was quick to highlight the contribution of the entire squad.
Senegal’s route to the final included difficult matches against Ghana national under-17 football team and Mali national under-17 football team, encounters that tested the resilience and unity of the team.
“The whole group deserves credit because everyone makes sacrifices for the team. We showed that when we played with ten men against Ghana and Mali.”
“Some players work incredibly hard behind the scenes without receiving much recognition. They provide the balance and energy that the team needs. Thanks to this collective spirit, we have reached the final.”
As anticipation builds across Senegal ahead of the decider, Faye acknowledged the growing excitement surrounding the team’s progress.
“The atmosphere is very good. Naturally, there is positive tension because an AFCON final is not something you play every day,” the midfielder said with a smile.
Despite increasing attention surrounding his future and performances, Faye insists he remains grounded.
“My coaches and family always remind me that the hardest part is not getting there, but staying there. The interest is flattering, but today my main objective is to help my team overcome challenges and continue progressing.”
When Senegal take the field against Tanzania, Faye is expected to once again carry the responsibility of leading the midfield as the defending champions attempt to add another continental title to their growing reputation in African football.
