'What Was the Point of This Match?'- Analyst Blasts Harambee Stars' 'Low-Value' Friendly Against Lions of Teranga

Senegalese football analyst Mbaye Jacques Diop delivered a sharp critique of the Lions of Teranga's recent friendly against Kenya, which saw them easily dispatch Harambee Stars 8-0 in Turkey just over a month before the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Speaking on Waxsaxalaat, Diop questioned the decision to schedule a match against Kenya, arguing that such a fixture offers no tangible benefit to the Lions of Teranga.

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"Sometimes you have to wonder... what was the point of this match? Why play it?" he asked.

He highlighted that other top African teams preparing for the AFCON are facing much stronger opponents, citing Algeria's match against Saudi Arabia and Tunisia's game against Brazil. "Senegal, ranked 19th in the world, can face any team," Diop stated as reported by Senegalese outlet Wiwsport.

"Playing against Kenya, ranked 108th and who I would call a 'Cinderella of African football,' offers neither a serious challenge nor any sporting benefit. We are paying to play a match that has no added value."

Diop also condemned the last-minute organization of the friendly. "You can't wait until the eve of November 5th to schedule a match for the 18th. That's amateurism," he declared. He emphasized that all FIFA international windows are known well in advance and that Senegal, as a highly sought-after opponent, should not be scrambling to find games. "This team has reached a level where others need us, not the other way around."

The sports expert also pointed to a lack of professionalism in the logistical arrangements. He noted that the match was played in an empty stadium, whereas a game in France would have drawn thousands of supporters.

He also mentioned that the team's travel schedule, leaving London on the night of their match against Brazil, complicated player recovery. Furthermore, significant expenses were incurred for a match he described as having "no stakes."

Responding to comments from FSF Secretary-General Abdoulaye Sow, who claimed that some nations avoid playing Senegal, Diop expressed his firm disagreement. "I do not agree. Many teams wanted to play against Senegal, long before this new federation leadership came in."

Diop suggested the difficulties might stem from a decline in Senegal's diplomatic influence in international sports. "We have to admit that our leaders lack sufficient connections at the international level. The president has just arrived, but he must be surrounded by competent people."

While he praised Sow for honestly acknowledging the organizational shortcomings, Diop called for a reform of the executive committee. "There are people on that executive committee who do not belong there," he asserted.

Despite the criticism, Diop did appreciate the Lions' performance in their 2-0 loss to Brazil. "Even after conceding two goals, they didn't give up," he noted, adding that the team was missing three key starters: Krépin Diatta, Lamine Camara, and Habib Diarra.

He concluded by reinforcing his main point: "The national team has a certain standing. The environment around it must be professional, and people need to adapt to that professionalism."