On the eve of the crucial match against Benin, national coach Pape Thiaw directly addressed the issue of his team's lack of attacking efficiency, which has sometimes hampered them in recent outings. Speaking to reporters, the coach emphasized an important point: for him, creating scoring opportunities is already a step in the right direction.

“The hardest part is creating chances. And on that point, we’re succeeding,” he explained at a press conference. While the volume of play and favorable situations are certainly there, the coach acknowledges that the next step remains the most crucial: “We’re working well and creating chances. Now we have to convert them.”

Pape Thiaw also emphasized that finishing, although practiced in training, ultimately depends on individual responsibility and the player's concentration at the moment of the final touch. He reminded everyone that despite the determination of his attackers, several factors, such as the opposing goalkeeper's performance or a lack of luck, can influence the outcome.

The coach is aware that this lack of clinical finishing poses a risk to the entire team. "When we don't score, it can put us in danger later on," he admitted, alluding to potential counter-attacks from the opposition or the increasing mental pressure as the match progresses.

However, the final message remains resolutely optimistic. Asserting that specific shooting sessions have been intensified, the Lions' coach firmly believes in an immediate breakthrough: "We have prepared well... Tomorrow, it will pay off."