Former Senegal international El Hadji Diouf has revealed a key moment from the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations final, saying a short message from head coach Aliou Cissé helped calm the team and “saved” the match.
Senegal went on to beat Egypt on penalties to win the tournament in Cameroon, lifting the AFCON trophy for the first time in the country’s history after a tense final that ended 0-0.
Speaking about what happened inside the dressing room during the game, Diouf said Cissé delivered a clear line to the players that changed the mood and kept them focused when the pressure was at its highest.
Diouf explained that the coach’s words settled the group and stopped anxiety from taking over, allowing Senegal to stay patient, keep their discipline and stick to the plan until the shootout.
The former striker added that the players responded immediately, and that the message brought everyone together at a crucial time in the match.
Senegal eventually held their nerve from the spot, overcoming Egypt to secure the title and write a new chapter in the nation’s football history.
