Algeria and Senegal meet in the second match of the first U-23 African Championship in the Moroccan city of Tangiers tomorrow night (26th November). Senegalese coach Abdoulaye Sarr was in confident mood ahead of the match and said that his team was in Morocco to win. Sarr was keen to mention that the tournament has unfortunately been deprived of the best sides , all teams could have brought had all players been permitted by their clubs. Echoing the sentiments shared by almost all the coaches at the tournament, Sarr said, " We will start this tournament with only three professional players. I wish I had all the players available but l have to make do with the squad l have here" said Sarr

"We will give it our best and the boys are ready for this tournament, in any case all the teams here in Morocco are missing some players so l suppose it's the same for everyone" Senegal played a goalless draw against Egypt last week during their preparations and Sarr said he wants the same performance against Algeria. Senegal will be looking to Salilou Ciss, Kara Mbodji and Zargo Toure , the three professionals Sarr mentioned to led the side on Saturday in Tangiers.

Meanwhile Algerian defender Farouk Chafai said the atmosphere in the Algeria camp was one of relaxation but focused attention. " We will do everything to win on Saturday. Winning the first game will put us in strong place for the next two games. This is key to our success in this tournament. Senegal is unknown opponent to us but nothing scares me and l'm ready for them and if the coach calls me to the starting line-up I will do my best ".

Chafai' s team mate, striker Youcef Belaili echoed the victory sentiment saying, " Our goal is to beat Senegal in the first game but the overall aim is to qualify for the Olympics." The striker has been dogged by injury and is just back from knee surgery. I am happy to be able to participate in this tournament and l am looking forward to making a contribution and hopefully score goals . I am motivated and ready for this competition. We are capable of winning the first U-23 Championship" concluded Belaili.