Sadio Mane: We dare not underestimate our opponents

The Lions of Teranga head into this tournament as defending champions, having beaten Egypt 4-1 on penalties in the 2021 final, after the match had ended goalless at full-time.

They will face Cameroon, Gambia and Guinea in Group C when the competition kicks off in the Ivory Coast on January 13.

Speaking ahead of the tournament, the Al Nassr attacker admits they face a tough task to escape from their group.

He said in the Citizen: "The match against Cameroon is going to be very tough and we dare not underestimate our other opponents.

"While accepting that none of these matches will be easy, we have the ability and determination to reach the knockout stage."

Despite winning the competition against a star-studded Egypt side last time, Mane insists retaining their title will be a tougher challenge.

"I believe the 2024 Cup of Nations will be the toughest to win because the line-up is the strongest," he explained.

"I cannot recall a stronger field. All the giants are going to be in the Ivory Coast and all of them will be plotting to dethrone us."

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