Senegal’s U17 team prepares for 2026 CAN Morocco with a balanced 23-player squad
Head coach Lamine Sané has unveiled the final 23-man roster for Senegal’s U17 national team, selected to compete in the 2026 CAN U17 Morocco, running from May 13 to June 2. The announcement reflects a strategy balancing experience and talent, ensuring the Lionceaux are ready for the challenge.
Experienced defensive backbone and goalkeeper trio
The defensive setup features a mix of seasoned players and rising stars. Between the posts, Assane Sarr of Ndangane FC will serve as the primary goalkeeper. Returning from the previous edition of the tournament, Sarr will be supported by Daouda Alassane Ba (Génération Foot) and Mamadou D. Gueye (Diambars FC).
In defense, Cheikh Thior (Oslo FA) makes his first CAN U17 appearance after shining at the UFOA U17 tournament in Bamako. He joins Cheikh Dieng (Diambars FC), a two-time tournament participant and winner in Mali. The defensive line is rounded out by Amadou Bamba Kane (Diambars FC), Thierno Sow, Cheikh Tidiane Diallo (United Académie), Lamine Mbengue (Génération Foot), and Abdourahmane Dieye (Keur Madior FC).
Midfield powerhouses and attacking options
The midfield boasts players with proven regional success. Mahamet Ba and Souleymane C. Faye (Be Sport), both winners of the UFOA U17 Mali tournament, bring invaluable experience. They will be joined by Maurice Biaye (AF Darou Salam), Emile Niaga Sadio (Essamaye FC), El Hadji Ibrahima Sow (Dakar Sacré-Cœur), and Sébastien Nogueira (Génération Foot).
Up front, Mouhamed Wagne (Diambars FC) returns for his second CAN U17, providing leadership and sharpness. He will spearhead the attack alongside Séga Fall Mbodji, Daouda Fofana (Génération Foot), Magueye Niang (Guelwaars FC), Abdoulaye Diop (AC Mawade Wade), Ibrahima Dione (HLM Dakar), and Cheikh Omar Sy (Castor FC).
Notable absence and final preparations
Despite high expectations, the squad faces a setback with the omission of Bara Gueye (Oslo FC). The standout performer from the recent African U15 School Championship, where Senegal triumphed in Zimbabwe, was initially preselected but withdrew due to injury sustained during a preparation camp. His absence underscores the challenges of balancing talent and physical readiness.
Before flying to Morocco, the Lionceaux will head to Tunisia for a friendly match against the Tunisian U17 side. This final tuning session aims to sharpen their tactics and chemistry ahead of the tournament.
