CAN 2025 only begins on Sunday and Senegal is already suffering the blow. The blows of fate started last night in Serie A during Como’s match against Roma. Assane Diao, after an explosive action just before half-time, was hit in the hamstring. According to information revealed by the media Wiwsport, it is a grade II muscle injury which will keep him away from the field between 6 and 8 weeks, a period that is far too long and will prevent him from playing a single match, even if the Lions of Teranga sneak up to the CAN final on January 18.
For Diao, this situation is a huge disappointment. The young player chose to represent Senegal in March 2025, leaving Spain, and did everything to be available for the African football festival in Morocco. His injury is therefore a hard blow for himself, but also for Senegal and their coach Pape Thiaw, who lose a precious offensive weapon.
Camara also forfeits, the bad luck continues
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) also announced a second bad news with the withdrawal of Ilay Camara. The defender was injured during a Belgian championship match between Anderlecht and Sint-Truiden. An MRI carried out in Dakar confirmed a grade 2 muscle injury in his right hamstring, forcing him to withdraw in turn. The FSF also published a press release to formalize this absence: “The Senegalese Football Federation informs the public that player Ilay Camara was injured at club level on Sunday December 14, 2025, during the match between Anderlecht and Saint-Trond. An MRI performed today in Dakar revealed a grade 2 muscle injury in his right hamstring. Consequently, he is declared forfeited for the CAN Morocco 2025. The Senegalese Football Federation concluded by wishing a speedy recovery to its player.
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Camara’s message of hope
For her part, Camara spoke on Instagram to share her feelings about this difficult ordeal. “These are tests that football and life sometimes impose on us,” he wrote, while maintaining a positive attitude. Despite his package, he promises to support his teammates fully: “I will be their first supporter,” he assured, before adding that he wants to see the team go all the way and “bring the trophy back to Senegal”. He also thanked the numerous messages of support sent to him.
To summarize
Senegal suffers a double blow before CAN 2025. Assane Diao, injured in his hamstring, is out for 6 to 8 weeks. Ilay Camara, also affected, will also miss the tournament. Two major absences for the Teranga Lions.
