Camara shines as Senegal commence their AFCON title defense with a victory against Gambia
Lamine Camara netted twice as Senegal initiated their Africa Cup of Nations title defense with a convincing 3-0 triumph over 10-man Gambia in Yamoussoukro on Monday.
Senegal claimed the top spot in the early Group C standings ahead of Cameroon’s match against Guinea later in the day.
Under Aliou Cisse's management, Senegal displayed enough prowess in the Ivorian heat, suggesting their potential to become the first team since Egypt (2006, 2008, and 2010) to secure back-to-back AFCON titles.
The Senegal starting XI featured only five players from the team that triumphed over Egypt in the final two years ago. However, it was the young talent, Camara, who stole the spotlight.
Gambia faces a challenging path to reach the knockout stage after their remarkable debut quarter-final run two years ago.
Senegal wasted no time imposing pressure on their West African neighbors, taking the lead in the fourth minute. Sadio Mane's precise lay-off was converted by the unmarked Pape Gueye, giving Senegal an early advantage.
Despite a troubled pre-tournament buildup, Gambia grew into the game, coming close to an equalizer when Musa Barrow's free-kick hit the side-netting.
However, Gambia suffered a setback just before halftime as Cardiff City midfielder Ebou Adams received a red card for a studs-up challenge.
In the second half, Senegal effectively secured the win when Camara, receiving Ismailia Sarr’s pass, drilled a low shot into the far corner.
Senegal capped off the scoring with a remarkable goal in the 86th minute, as Iliman Ndiaye's clever play set up Camara, who expertly bent the ball into the top corner from the edge of the 'D.'
Although Mohamed Badamosi had a chance for a late consolation for Gambia, heading wide in injury time, Senegal outclassed their opponents. Gambia now turns their attention to the second game against Guinea on Friday, while Senegal faces a tougher challenge against five-time winners Cameroon.
Leave A Comment