Sénégal U17 squad for CAN 2026 revealed by Lamine Sané

Head coach Lamine Sané has announced the final 23-man roster for the Sénégal U17 national team, selected to compete in the upcoming U17 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN U17) in Morocco from May 13 to June 2, 2026.

The announcement reflects a strategic blend of seasoned players and emerging talents, with a strong emphasis on those with prior experience in continental and regional tournaments like the UFOA U17 championship. The squad’s preparation will include an international friendly against Tunisia before the main competition.

Goalkeepers: Experience behind the sticks

The defensive line rests on the shoulders of three reliable shot-stoppers. Assane Sarr (Ndangane FC), returning for his second consecutive U17 CAN, brings valuable tournament experience. He will be backed by Daouda Alassane Ba (Génération Foot) and Mamadou D. Gueye (Diambars FC), both set to make their second appearance in the competition.

Defensive solidity: A mix of talent and experience

The backline features a blend of returning players and fresh faces. Cheikh Thior (Oslo FA) will debut at the CAN after his standout performance at the UFOA U17 tournament in Bamako. He joins forces with Cheikh Dieng (Diambars FC), a previous CAN participant and winner of the UFOA tournament in Mali. The defensive core is rounded out by Amadou Bamba Kane, Thierno Sow, Cheikh Tidiane Diallo (United Académie), Lamine Mbengue (Génération Foot), and Abdourahmane Dieye (Keur Madior FC).

Midfield dynamism: Leaders with a championship pedigree

In the heart of the pitch, the team will rely on midfielders with proven track records. Mahamet Ba and Souleymane C. Faye (Be Sport), both victors of the UFOA U17 tournament in Mali, will anchor the midfield. They will be supported by Maurice Biaye (AF Darou Salam), Emile Niaga Sadio (Essamaye FC), El Hadji Ibrahima Sow (Dakar Sacré-Cœur), and Sébastien Nogueira (Génération Foot).

Attacking firepower: A blend of skill and speed

The offensive line is spearheaded by Mouhamed Wagne (Diambars FC), a CAN veteran who will lead 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).

While the squad boasts impressive depth, one notable name is missing. Bara Gueye (Oslo FC), the standout performer at the 2024 African School Championship U15, was initially preselected but had to withdraw due to an injury sustained during a preparatory camp. His absence underscores the challenges of assembling a competitive squad ahead of major tournaments.

Pre-tournament preparation: Fine-tuning ahead of Morocco

Before heading to Morocco, the team will face Tunisia in a preparatory friendly in Tunisia. This match will serve as the final test before the CAN U17 kicks off, allowing the coach to assess the squad’s readiness and make any last-minute tactical adjustments.