AFCON 2021: Cech tips Mendy and Senegal for AFCON glory
The Teranga Lions have been chasing the AFCON title since their debut in 1965 without success, but the former Arsenal goalkeeper is confident that Mendy and Senegal can win the Africa Cup of Nations this season.
Czech Republic legend, Petr Cech is confident the Chelsea goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy and Senegal can achieve AFCON glory for the first time ever in Cameroon.
The West Africa giant reached the quarter-finals of the tournament after defeating Cape Verde 2-0 in the Round of 16 with Liverpool forward Sadio Mane and Marseille forward, Bamba Dieng scoring the goals at Stade Omnisports de Bafoussam.
Chelsea legend, Peter Cech in his weekly column-writing suggested the 29-year old Senegalese goalkeeper who was recently crowned the best 2021 FIFA goalkeeper, the first time an African goalkeeper will win it, can lift the 2021 AFCON title with other trophies this year since Senegal are among the favorites.
“Edou was named The Best goalkeeper by FIFA and it’s another great achievement for him.”
“He is the first African goalkeeper to win the award, which is amazing, and testament to how well he has done since he came to our club.
“He had an incredible year, winning two trophies, and it reflects his hard work and attitude. It’s great to see him getting recognition and our other players who made it to the Team of the Year.
”The best thing is Edou can now add more trophies this year. He is at the Africa Cup of Nations now, Senegal are one of the favourites, so he could even win this trophy before he returns to us.
“And then we have the Club World Cup and the Carabao Cup final to look forward to in a few weeks. Hopefully, for him, he will be on the right end of three more trophies.”
Mendy did not feature in Senegal opening two Group B matches – 1-0 win against Zimbabwe and 0-0 draw against Guinea –following a positive covid test.
He, however, recovered in time to play against Malawi where he kept a clean sheet in a 0-0 draw and was in goal when they defeated Cabo Verde 2-0 to progress to the quarter-final.
Senegal will square up against Equatorial Guinea to secure a spot in the semi-final at Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium on Sunday.
