Lamine sané announces Senegal U17 squad for CAN U17 Morocco 2026
National coach Lamine Sané has officially unveiled the 23-player roster for Senegal’s Under-17 national team, affectionately known as the “Lionceaux.” This highly anticipated squad will represent the nation at the upcoming CAN U17 2026 tournament, scheduled to take place in Morocco from May 13 to June 2, 2026.
The former international player has prioritized a blend of continuity and seasoned experience, integrating several key figures who have already competed in continental and regional (UFOA) football challenges. In goal, Assane Sarr from Ndangane FC will serve as a crucial last line of defense, returning to Morocco after participating in the previous edition of the tournament. He is joined by Daouda Alassane Ba of Génération Foot and Mamadou D. Gueye from Diambars FC, completing a strong goalkeeping trio.
The defensive line sees the recall of several reliable talents. Cheikh Thior of Oslo FA is set to make his debut at the CAN U17, having previously featured in the UFOA U17 tournament held in Bamako. He will be supported by Cheikh Dieng from Diambars FC, who brings experience from the last edition of the CAN and a victory in the UFOA tournament in Mali. Further bolstering the defense are Amadou Bamba Kane (Diambars FC), Thierno Sow and Cheikh Tidiane Diallo (both from United Académie), Lamine Mbengue (Génération Foot), and Abdourahmane Dieye (Keur Madior FC).
In the midfield, players who have already achieved regional titles are prominently featured. Mahamet Ba (Diambars FC) and Souleymane C. Faye (Be Sport), both winners of the UFOA U17 tournament in Mali, are expected to provide invaluable experience. They will play alongside Maurice Biaye (AF Darou Salam), Emile Niaga Sadio (Essamaye FC), El Hadji Ibrahima Sow (Dakar Sacré-Cœur), and Sébastien Nogueira (Génération Foot), forming a dynamic central unit.
Leading the offensive charge, the experience of Mouhamed Wagne (Diambars FC), a participant in the previous CAN, will be vital. He will spearhead the attack alongside Séga Fall Mbodji and Daouda Fofana (both from Génération Foot), Magueye Niang (Guelwaars FC), Abdoulaye Diop (AC Mawade Wade), Ibrahima Dione (HLM Dakar), and Cheikh Omar Sy (Castor FC). However, this squad announcement includes one notable omission: Bara Gueye of Oslo, recognized as the best player at the recent U15 African School Championship, which Senegal won in Zimbabwe. Initially shortlisted, he was ultimately withdrawn from the final group due to an injury sustained during the preparatory training camp.
Prior to their journey to Morocco, the Lionceaux are scheduled for a stopover in Tunisia. There, they will engage in a friendly match against the Tunisian national team, providing a final opportunity to fine-tune their strategies and readiness for the continental challenge.
