Diouf predicts Senegal glory

Former Marseille president Pape Diouf has tipped Senegal to take out the 2012 African Cup of Nations.

The 59-year-old Frenchman of Senegalese descent said he was basing his prediction on the new and inspiring form of the Teranga Lions, guided by a local and ambitious coach in Amara Traore.

“This prediction is straight from my heart. I strongly believe Senegal will finish as continental champions in 2012,” Diouf said.

“The team is a renewed bunch of sparkling and focused talents and coach Amara Traore is a dynamic and ambition coach capable of leading the Lions to the final and winning.”

Diouf slammed those who have classed Senegal as the underdogs of the continental tournament as being ignorant.

“A simple study of the Senegal team will tell you it is not a mere squad,” Diouf said.

“The team is composed of sharp scorers, good defence, a cohesive midfield and a fine goalkeeper. And above all, you sense the desire to play to win amongst them.”

He acknowledged that Ivory Coast, Ghana and Morocco deserved to be among the favourites, but believes Senegal have what it takes to overcome that opposition.