Papa Demba Ndour: the experience of a champion, the strength of the collective

Four African titles with Senegal. A historic World Cup victory against Brazil. And the same conviction at Union Vrede: great achievements begin with a tight-knit team.

Some players bring more than just their qualities on the sand. They bring experience from matches where every decision counts. They know how important it is to stay calm, support one another, and keep believing together.

Papa Demba Ndour is one such player.

Since 2013, he has represented Senegal in international beach soccer. He won four African titles with the national team and was part of the side that made history against Brazil in 2021. Yet in this interview, he speaks mainly of respect, discipline, and solidarity. For him, experience only truly gains meaning when it helps his teammates.

Through Hamad, whom he considers a brother, he found his way to Union Vrede. He discovered an ambitious group and a family where he found his place. Winning the Belgian league title and cup confirmed the potential of that partnership.

In Alanya, tournament regulations mean Hamad will not be able to take part alongside him. Demba speaks honestly about it: it saddens him, but his hope for new adventures together remains.

Now the World Winners Cup awaits. His goal is clear: give everything, share his experience, and help Union Vrede continue to grow as a team.

Meet the defender, the Senegalese international, and the teammate for whom nobody stands alone.

The interview

1. Could you briefly introduce yourself and tell us a bit about who you are off the pitch?

My name is Papa Demba Ndour. I have been a Senegalese international in beach soccer since 2013. I am an experienced defender, passionate about sports, humble, and deeply committed to respect and team spirit.

2. How did your football career start, and how did you discover beach soccer?

I started playing football in Senegal before discovering beach soccer. In 2013, I joined the Senegalese national team, which allowed me to compete in major international tournaments.

3. What does it mean to you to defend the colours of Senegal?

Wearing the Senegal shirt fills me with immense pride. With the national team, I won four Africa Cups and took part in several major tournaments. That experience taught me discipline, solidarity, and how to handle big games.

4. Can you tell us about the historic victory over Brazil at the 2021 World Cup?

That victory in the quarter-finals remains an unforgettable memory. We were determined and stood as one team against a great side. It was historic for Senegal and for Africa, as we became the first African team to reach the semi-finals.

5. How did you end up at Union Vrede, and what were your first impressions?

I arrived at Union Vrede thanks to my brother Hamad, with whom I share many years of experience. I discovered an ambitious squad and a true family. I'm glad I can pass on my experience to the club.

6. Which qualities are essential for defending well in beach soccer?

You need concentration, anticipation, good communication, and solidarity. With my international experience, I try to help the team stay organised and defensively solid.

7. How did you experience the finals with Union Vrede this season?

Playing in those finals gave me great satisfaction. Winning the league championship and the Belgian Cup shows that the squad has potential and that we can achieve even more great things together.

8. How would you describe your bond with Hamad?

Hamad is like a brother to me. We've been playing together in the national team for more than ten years and have played together in the national squad, in France, and in Belgium. Our bond is built on trust, respect, and all the experiences we've shared.

9. How do you feel about not being able to take part in the World Winners Cup together with Hamad?

It's a bit sad, because I'm used to travelling and playing with Hamad. I understand the regulations, but I hope we'll get other opportunities to compete together with Union Vrede and keep sharing wonderful experiences.

10. How do you put your international experience to use for your teammates?

I try to pass on my experience, give my teammates advice, and encourage them in difficult moments. For me, the most important thing is that we stick together and never give up.

11. What are the strengths of Union Vrede, and what do we still need to improve?

Our strength lies in our family spirit, our ambition, and our solidarity. We need to keep working, especially on our organisation and efficiency, to compete with the best international teams.

12. What are your ambitions for the World Winners Cup in Alanya?

My goal is to use all my experience to help Union Vrede have a great tournament. I want to give everything on the pitch and contribute to the club's collective ambitions.

13. What message would you like to share with Hamad, your teammates, and the supporters?

I want to thank Hamad, my teammates, and all the supporters for their trust. We are a family and we must stay united. We will give everything to represent Union Vrede with pride and enjoy a wonderful international adventure.

Allez Union Vrede! 💛🖤