Senegal (Group C)

Senegal have the potential to be continental champions but often punch below their weight. However, Alain Giresse has made progress in his efforts to turn the west Africans into a stronger force. He has made them realise places have to be fought for and has instilled a more disciplined approach. This generation could match the achievements of the team built by Bruno Metsu that reached the World Cup quarter-finals in 2002 – the same year Senegal had their best Nations Cup finish when they reached the Final in Mali.

COACH

Alain Giresse took over two years ago, having taken Mali to third place at the 2012 finals. This will be his third Nations Cup. He also coached Gabon in 2010, narrowly missing out on the last eight. He played in the World Cup with France and was a member of their 1984 European Championship- winning side. His coaching career has included spells at Toulouse and Paris Saint-Germain as well as Royal Armed Forces of Morocco and Georgia’s national team.

KEY PLAYERS

Senegal are beginning to draw more heavily from the growing number of players born in France. There is great competition up front, so players such as Mame Biriam Diouf and Moussa Sow might have to start on the bench. Dame Ndoye and Sadio Mane (injured) were particularly creative in the qualifiers. Cover at full-back and in goal is on the threadbare side.

LIKELY STARTING XI (4-5-1):

Bouna Coundoul - Lamine Sane, Papa Djilobodji, Kara Mbodji, Pape Souaré - Dame Ndoye, Papakouli Diop, Mohamed Diame, Cheikhou Kouyate, Moussa Sow - Papiss Cissé.