Idrissa Gana Gueye Urges Senegal to Stay Focused After Tough 2–0 Loss to Brazil

Gueye Reflects on Senegal’s Slow Start

Idrissa Gana Gueye delivered a direct assessment of Senegal’s 2–0 defeat to Brazil and urged his teammates to stay committed to their plan.

He explained that Senegal lost control early in the match and never fully recovered.

Gueye produced 64 touches, 10 turnovers, an 85% pass completion rate, three recoveries, and one aerial duel won.

He improved after the break, yet he struggled in the first half against Bruno Guimarães and Casemiro.

Those early midfield battles shaped the direction of the match.

Brazil Takes Control Immediately

Senegal entered the match without rhythm. Brazil pressed high, controlled possession, and created danger almost every time they advanced.

The Lions failed to find balance or consistency in their build-up play.

Gueye noted that the opening minutes set the tone. Brazil moved the ball quickly, stretched Senegal’s midfield, and forced errors.

The Lions needed more calm and structure, but Brazil never allowed them space.

Gueye Calls the Match a “Test”

Gueye described the defeat as difficult but valuable.

He said, “I don’t call this a good defeat, but I take it as a test.

We started the match very badly and conceded two goals.

We reacted well in the second half, but the reaction didn’t change the result.

Brazil plays at a very high level. We came here to prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations.

We must keep working and believe in our project.”

Senegal improved after halftime and played with more intensity.

They pushed higher up the pitch and tried to disrupt Brazil’s flow.

Brazil managed their lead and maintained control, even as Senegal increased pressure.

Focus Turns to AFCON Preparations

Gueye insisted that Senegal must stay united.

He said difficult matches reveal details the team must fix before major competitions.

He also stressed that belief in the long-term plan remains essential.

Senegal now turns fully toward AFCON preparations.

The Lions aim to correct the issues shown in this match and gain confidence before stepping into competitive action.