Senegal defender Kalidou Koulibaly says he would rather win the Africa Cup of Nations than qualify for the FIFA World Cup, underlining the value he places on Africa’s flagship competition.
The former Napoli and Chelsea centre-back is preparing for Senegal’s opening match against Botswana on Tuesday, December 23, at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.
Koulibaly insists lifting the AFCON trophy means more to him than booking a place at the World Cup, stressing the prestige of the continental tournament.
“The Africa Cup of Nations is one of the most beautiful competitions in the world. Maybe some people don’t respect it, but I respect it deeply. I know what a victory at the AFCON represents. I would never trade winning the AFCON for qualifying to the World Cup.”
The 34-year-old also called on Africans to protect and celebrate their own competition.
“I also hope the press will help shine a light on this beautiful competition. Despite everything that has happened before, we must put it aside and play football, think about that joy of life that is unique to Africa. It is up to us, Africans, to defend our competition.”
Now with Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, Koulibaly is expected to play a key leadership role as Senegal chase another AFCON title.
Since his debut, the experienced defender has made 97 appearances for the Teranga Lions, scoring two goals
