Senegal's Dominance Continues: Defending Champions Secure Knockout Stage Berth in CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2023

Senegal continued their impressive title defense in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d'Ivoire 2023 with a hard-fought victory over Cameroon at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium in Yamoussoukro on Friday evening.

The Teranga Lions dominated the match from the early minutes, with Ismaila Sarr opening the scoring just 16 minutes into the game. Sarr capitalized on a teasing pass inside the box, pouncing on a rebound to give Senegal a well-deserved lead.

As the game progressed, Senegal maintained control into the second half, doubling their lead with a goal from Habib Dailo. Sarr, the initial goal-scorer, turned provider, delivering a perfect pass to Dailo, who confidently slotted in Senegal's second goal.

Cameroon's Jean Charles Castelleto managed to narrow the gap, heading home a cross from Oliver Ntcham in the 83rd minute, making it 2-1. The Indomitable Lions increased the pressure on Senegal, but with just 2 minutes left in the game, Sadio Mane secured the victory with Senegal's third goal. Mane, connected with a Pape Gueye pass, left goalkeeper Andre Onana helpless.

This triumph propels Senegal to 6 points from 2 games, securing their spot in the knockout stage. Cameroon now faces a crucial last game against Gambia on Tuesday, needing a win to progress.

Senegal will conclude their group stage journey against Guinea at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium in Yamoussoukro on Tuesday, 23 January.