Coach Lamine Sané of the Sénégal under-17 national team has finalized the 23-player roster for the upcoming U17 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN U17) 2026, set to take place in Morocco from May 13 to June 2, 2026.

experienced squad backed by continuity

The Lionceaux will rely on a blend of seasoned players and fresh talent, with several athletes who have already competed in continental and regional tournaments like the UFOA U17 competition. In goal, Assane Sarr of Ndangane FC will serve as the primary goalkeeper, bringing experience from the previous edition. He will be supported by Daouda Alassane Ba of Génération Foot and Mamadou D. Gueye of Diambars FC.

defensive solidity

The backline features a mix of returning defenders and newcomers. Cheikh Thior of Oslo FA will make his CAN U17 debut after participating in the UFOA U17 tournament in Bamako. He will be joined by proven performers like Cheikh Dieng of Diambars FC, a veteran of the last edition and winner of the UFOA tournament in Mali. The defense also includes Amadou Bamba Kane (Diambars FC), Thierno Sow, Cheikh Tidiane Diallo (United Académie), Lamine Mbengue (Génération Foot), and Abdourahmane Dieye (Keur Madior FC).

midfield dynamics

In the heart of the pitch, Mahamet Ba (Diambars FC) and Souleymane C. Faye (Be Sport), both winners of the UFOA U17 tournament in Mali, will bring tactical intelligence and creativity. 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).

striking force

Up front, Mouhamed Wagne of Diambars FC will lead the attack, drawing on his experience from the last CAN. He will be joined by Séga Fall Mbodji, Daouda Fofana (both Génération Foot), Magueye Niang (Guelwaars FC), Abdoulaye Diop (AC Mawade Wade), Ibrahima Dione (HLM Dakar), and Cheikh Omar Sy (Castor FC).

notable omission

One notable absence from the squad is Bara Gueye of Oslo FC, the standout player of the recent African School Championship U15, which Sénégal won in Zimbabwe. Gueye, initially preselected, was forced to withdraw due to an injury sustained during the preparatory stage.

preparation ahead of the tournament

Before heading to Morocco, the Lionceaux will make a stop in Tunisia for a friendly match against the local under-17 team. This encounter will serve as a final tuning session ahead of the continental showdown.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst