10 February 2002
Lagos — The Lions of Terranga savoured Thursday s elimination of Nigeria from the African Cup of Nations by having an all-night party at their hotel.But star attacking mid-fielder Khalilou Fadiga said it was not anything that came as a surprise.
"There was no time, no moment during the match that we thought we were going to lose. You know, we began the match from the standpoint of the fact that both teams have qualified for the World Cup, and therefore, neither should fear the other. We are aware that Nigeria have very good players and would be difficult customers, but it was all about preparation.From the matches the Nigerians had played in the championship, we knew they were short on pace. That is something we have.
We also have a young team. Even when Nigeria equalised our first goal, we did not think we would lose. The confidence was there.Our defenders should have been more careful about(Julius) Aghahowa because he is always a dangerous customer. When we met Nigeria in the quarter final two years ago, he scored the two goals that eliminated us.Actually, if Aghahowa did not get a red card, it would have been a bit difficult at the tail end.
But we had a plan for him. This kind of match, in which both teams appear equal,what decides the winner is the mental preparation. I think we were more mentally prepared", said the 27-year old AJ Auxerre of France charge.He continues: "This is an important night for Senegalese football.It is the first time we are in the final of the African Nations Cup.
We are overjoyed.I recall that even when Senegal hosted the competition 10 years ago, it did not reach the semi final".Fadiga came very close to taking Belgian citizenship two years ago but then opted to play for the land of his parents, though he had lived in Belgium most of his live. He says he does not regret the decision. Senegal are in the final of the African Cup and will play in the World Cup for the first time this summer.
"Surely, I cannot feel more fulfilled.Tonight, we have beaten one of the more pedireed sides in Africa and a team that has won Olympic gold.The sky is the limit for Senegal".(ACONS)
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