On this historic day, at the sanctuary of the Republic, Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation, delivered a solemn speech on the occasion of the handing over of the national flag to the Lions.

Abdoulaye Fall emphasized the symbolic significance of this gesture: "Returning the flag is entrusting the soul of the nation to its children," he declared. For him, the tricolor flag, emblazoned with the green star, is more than just a piece of fabric: "It encapsulates our history, embodies our sovereignty, and carries our greatest hopes."

The Federation president then highlighted the strength and unity of the national team, which he described as a "perfect alchemy." According to him, the team possesses all the qualities of a great competitor: talent, courage, discipline, dedication, and patriotism, combining the experience of seasoned players with the creativity and energy of young talents.

In a bold analogy to the government, Abdoulaye Fall presented his team as a "government in action" on the field, capable of enforcing the rules of the game and commanding respect from every opponent. Each player was compared to a strategic member of a government: Coach Pape Thiaw, the Prime Minister, defines the strategy and coordinates the action; Captain Kalidou Koulibaly, the Minister of Defense, guarantees the security and integrity of the territory; the goalkeeper, the Minister of National Security, represents the last line of defense. The midfielders and forwards embody organization, build-up play, and attacking prowess, while the young talents symbolize the country's boldness and future.

Abdoulaye Fall emphasized the team's sole objective: victory. "We are not here to make up the numbers," he stated. "The commitment of all members of this team, supported by the Federation and the State, is total so that, on the evening of January 18, 2026, the sun of victory will once again rise upon Senegal."

The Federation president concluded on a vibrant note of commitment and national pride: "We promise to give our all, to show courage and endurance, so that this flag you entrust to us today will be accompanied by the continental trophy. Go, Lyons! Long live sport, long live the Republic, long live Senegal!"