Reigning champions of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Senegal opened their title defence with a comfortable 3-0 win over The Gambia at Stade Charles Konan Banny in Yamoussoukro on Monday, www.aclsports.com reports.
The Teranga Lions started on a bright note courtesy of a fine goal from Pape Gueye before Lamine Camara grabbed a second-half brace to put the game beyond the Scorpions who were quarter-finalists in the last edition.
Gueye’s goal came from Sadio Mane’s assist after sustained pressure from the champions. The Gambia tried re-grouping and fighting their way back into the match but were met by a resolute and disciplined Senegalese defense. However, any hopes of a comeback were dashed when Ebrima Adams was sent off after a vicious tackle on the young Camara just before the break.
After the break, Camara scored a brace including a goal of the tournament contender from the edge of the box as the Lions of Teranga roared into a 3-0 victory to go top of Group C.
In the other group game, Cameroon were held to a 1-1 draw by Guinea. Mohamed Bayo fired the Guineans into the lead before the Indomitable Lions found the equalizer in the second half through Frank Magri who nodded in Georges-Kevin Nkoudou’s cross.
The draw leaves both sides with work to do to qualify for the knockout stages. Guinea will face The Gambia next, while Cameroon will be up against Senegal in one of the games to watch on match day two.
On the other hand, 2019 champions Algeria were also held to a 1-1 draw by Angola in Bouake. Baghdad Bounedjah gave Algeria the lead after 18 minutes, and the striker then had a stunning second goal disallowed for a tight offside call soon after.
As the Algerians failed to put the game to bed, they were pegged back midway through the second half as substitute Mabululu converted from the spot after he had been brought down inside the area to draw his side level. For more AFCON news, click here.
