Thiaw (Senegal Coach): "The Result Is Disappointing... We Must Learn How to Kill Games Early"

Pape Thiaw, head coach of the Senegalese national team, expressed his disappointment with the 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in their Africa Cup of Nations group stage match. He emphasized that his team squandered the opportunity to seal the victory in the first half.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Thiaw stated, "The result was a bit disappointing. We could have decided the match in the first half, but that didn't happen." The Senegal coach added, "What pleased me most was the players' reaction after conceding the goal; it was positive and important, reflecting the team's character."

The "Teranga Lions" coach stressed the importance of securing results early in matches, saying, "Next time, we must know how to finish games early, as this is the best way to secure the result."

Thiaw also explained that the technical staff would continue to work on improving attacking efficiency. He added, "We will continue to work on converting our chances into goals and developing in this aspect. In football, scoring is what makes the difference, and this is what we will focus on in the next match."

With this draw, both teams now share the top spot in Group D with four points each, with Senegal remaining in first place on goal difference. The competition for group leadership remains open heading into the final matchday.