World Cup Focus: Aliou Cisse dedicates win to African continent

Senegal coach Aliou Cisse

Wednesday Jun 20, 2018. 16:00

Senegal became the first country from Africa to secure a win in the 2018 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday after beating Poland 2-1 and coach Aliou Cisse says the win is for Africa.

The Lions of Teranga were the last hope for the African continent after Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria and Tunisia all registered losses in their opening matches.

The former skipper, who led Senegal on their fairytale journey through the 2002 World Cup in Japan and South Korea, believes it was important for his side to win after other African representatives disappointed.

“Senegal represent the whole African continent,” he said.

“We are Senegal but I can guarantee the whole of Africa is supporting the Senegal team. I get calls and lots of people are proud and we are proud to represent the African continent.

“It’s a little bit too early. Winning first match of course means you start at the right pace. The second and third match are also important.

“I hope Egypt, Nigeria, Tunisia and Morcoco will stand up. There is a lot of quality in the other African teams.

“Not the same thing, not the same taste. France and Senegal have a history, France colonised Senegal, so when we faced France as opening match, that was quite exceptional.

“Things are different here but this was just as important as the victory we got against France.”