Senegal coach Aliou Cissé has explained the decision to withdraw from the AFCON final, describing the end of the tournament as a tragedy for his team.
Cissé said the move was not taken lightly, stressing that the technical staff and players were left with no real alternative in the circumstances. He pointed out that several factors came together at the worst possible time, affecting the team’s ability to continue.
In his comments, the Senegal boss made it clear the priority was the players’ well-being, adding that continuing would have put the squad at further risk. He also underlined that the decision was made after assessing the situation inside the camp and discussing it with those responsible.
The coach added that Senegal’s aim throughout the competition had been to fight for the title, but that the final unfolded in a way that made finishing the match impossible, turning what should have been a proud moment into a painful ending.
