TheCable

Samson Siasia, coach of the U-23 team, has recalled his memories of the Leopold Sedar Senghor Stadium when he featured in the squad that won bronze at 1992 African Nations Cup in Senegal.

As Dream Team VI files out against host Senegal in the semi-final of the CAF U-23 championship on Wednesday, Siasia wants to achieve another feat with his players.

“At the Africa Cup of Nations in 1992, I scored here (Leopold Sedar Senghor Stadium), and this is why most Senegalese remember me. I will be around my players to repeat it next Wednesday,” he said.

Although the coach fancied a tie with Senegal in the final, but will play the West African neighbours in the semis.

“I would have preferred to play Senegal in the final but I have to do at the semis. It will be a great match because they will have the public behind them and we have to play and win,” he said.

The coach commended the players for progressing in the competition after playing a goalless draw with Algeria  to come second in group B.

The result helped the team to further seek a ticket to Rio 2016 Olympics.

“I congratulate my team for not conceding and qualifying for the semi-finals. The most important was to qualify and we have achieved it,” he said.

“We wish we could garner the three points but I’m happy with qualifying and getting closer to Rio de Janeiro.

Siasia rewarded the players $100 each to fulfill his promise to the team should they qualify for the semis.