Senegal coach Bruno Metsu has no need to launch into impassioned motivational
speeches before games - the country's President Abdoulaye Wade does that for
Metsu has revealed that the Lions group together before each game to watch
inspirational video cassettes sent by Senegal's leading citizen.
"It always starts with, 'My dear Lions,' and everyone perks up," Metsu said,
adding that the President always appeared holding a football.
"He always knows the right words to use - he's a real psychologist," Metsu revealed.
always words of encouragement."
President Wade has maintained very close links with the Lions ever since
they qualified for the World Cup, cutting short an official visit to France
to return to Dakar with the victorious players.
Wade's daughter, Sindiely, is present at the World Cup in order to provide
moral support for the team and financial support for the Senegalese
journalists and fans.
"He has stayed very accessible," explained Metsu.
"The last time he called
me I thought it was an ordinary supporter who was calling me!"
Metsu believes Wade's backing has been a crucial factor in the Lions'
"He gives us everything we need to succeed. Nothing is too good for his
"After the Nations' Cup he said we hadn't had the victory but we had
had the glory, and we received a full win bonus. We are really lucky."
However, despite his status as their number one fan, Wade will not come to
Japan even if the Lions qualify for the World Cup final in Yokohama on 30 June.