Pape Gueye Chooses Africa Cup of Nations over World Cup Semifinal Glory

Pape Gueye, a Senegalese international who plays for Villarreal, talked about his career and said he would rather win the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) than make it to the World Cup semifinals.

He said that the emotional significance of winning the AFCON with Senegal surpasses any other accomplishment, even a World Cup final, which is why he choose the continental competition over a World Cup semifinal.

Gueye, 26, has enjoyed a solid season with Villarreal since moving from Olympique de Marseille to Spain last summer. He's made 22 appearances and started 17 games.

He also continues to excel with the Senegalese national team, where he has 26 caps and two goals. Gueye feels hopeful about Senegal's chances at the forthcoming AFCON 2025, as his squad currently leads their qualification group.

Gueye said he was thrilled to represent Senegal, calling it one of his best career decisions. He wants to continue assisting the national team's success because he values the teamwork and unity there, which he regards to as a family.

Alongside seasoned midfielder Idrissa Gueye and up-and-coming players Pape Matar Sarr and Lamine Camara, Gueye has made a name for himself despite his youth.

The midfielder also stated that he would always prefer winning the AFCON to reaching the World Cup semifinals and expressed his desire to assist Senegal in winning AFCON 2025 following their heartbreaking early elimination in the previous edition.

Gueye pondered on his place on the team and the responsibility that comes with representing his country. He also discussed his efforts to become more fully immersed in Senegalese culture, including learning Wolof, in order to commit himself exclusively to the national team.

Gueye continued by praising his teammate Lamine Camara, characterizing him as a rare and powerful player with a bright future, and emphasizing his skill and progress at Monaco.