Patryck Vieira: We are laying a solid foundation to be competitive

Patrick Vieira, Senegal's national team coach, confirmed that his team is working on building a strong foundation for competition ahead of a friendly match against Comoros at the Stade Vélodrome in Marseille.

Vieira said at the press conference: "Since my arrival, I knew there were things that needed to be addressed. There were areas for improvement, and I also received assurances regarding the players in terms of their mental state and their desire to represent the national team. But I find that for these two matches, we are in the process of laying a solid foundation to be able to compete."

Senegal's coach emphasized the importance of benefiting from recent matches, adding: "We have the opportunity to play in a legendary and important stadium in Europe. We must continue to progress, that is our goal, and learn lessons from these matches. There were positive aspects in the first match against Mozambique, and the same against Ethiopia."

In the upcoming match against Comoros, Vieira emphasized that the game represents an important opportunity for the coaching staff, stating: "It is important for me and the coaching staff, as it will allow us to draw lessons and improve, and give a chance to some players who have not had playing time so far."

The comments from Vieira come after Senegal have earned four points from six possible in their first two matches under his leadership in the Africa Cup of Nations Qualification 2027, as the coach continues to work on building a competitive team for the upcoming phase.