The reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions, Senegal, embarked on their title defense with a commanding 3-0 victory over The Gambia at Yamoussoukro’s Stade Charles Konan Banny. Pape Gueye’s early strike, complemented by Lamine Camara’s second-half brace, proved instrumental in the Lions of Teranga’s resounding success.
Despite The Gambia’s status as quarter-finalists in the previous edition, they found themselves outmatched by the reigning champions. Gueye’s goal, orchestrated by a Sadio Mane assist, underscored Senegal’s prowess. The Gambia’s attempts to regroup were met with a steadfast and disciplined Senegalese defense.
The Scorpions faced further adversity when Ebrima Adams received a red card for a harsh tackle on the young Lamine Camara just before halftime. Upon resuming play, the reigning champions continued their dominance, leaving The Gambia with minimal opportunities to mount a comeback.
Camara’s impressive brace, featuring a sublime strike from the edge of the box, propelled Senegal to a 3-0 victory, securing their position atop Group C and delivering a decisive message to their adversaries.
In the second Group C encounter at Charles Konan Banny Stadium, Guinea and Cameroon engaged in a tense battle that culminated in a 1-1 draw. Guinea seized an early lead through Mohamed Bayo, exploiting defensive lapses. However, Guinea’s captain, Francois Kamano, received a red card for an incident with Cameroonian midfielder Olivier Ntcham, a decision validated by Video Assistant Referee Mutaz Ibrahim.
Cameroon capitalized on Guinea’s numerical disadvantage, with Frank Magri showcasing aerial prowess to equalize six minutes into the second half, resulting in a 1-1 stalemate.
In their Group C opener at Bouake’s Stade De La Paix, Angolan striker Cristovao Paciencia salvaged a crucial point by converting a penalty, securing a 1-1 draw against former champions Algeria. Despite Algeria’s favoritism, the 2019 champions were held at bay, and the match saw early opportunities, notably Fares Chaibi’s sixth-minute attempt and Youcef Belaili’s powerful strike saved by Adilson Cipriano in the eighth minute.
