Defending African Cup of Nations tournament champions Senegal kicked started their campaign of 2023 AFCON with a commanding victory over Gambia on Monday afternoon, showcasing their determination to retain the coveted championship.
Gambia, despite a promising display in the previous edition, struggled to contain a well determined Senegalese side at the Yamoussoukro Stadium.
Pape Gueye set the tone for the Teranga Lions with an early goal in the fourth minute, asserting Senegal’s dominance from the start.
The woes for Gambia escalated as Ibrahima Cisse received a red card on the eve of halftime, reducing their squad and providing Senegal with numerical advantage, an opportunity Senegal capitalized to deepend the wounds of Gambia.
In the second half of the game Senegal continued their onslaught, leaving no stone unturned to double their lead from Lamine Camara’s 52nd goal and equally getting the 3rd to seal victory on the day for the defending champions.
Senegal have secured a deserved three points to occupy the top spot on the Group C table, eagerly awaiting to come face to face in their second group game against the indomitable Lions of Cameron on January 18, 2024.
The dominant performance in their opening match sends a strong message as Senegal aims to maintain their reign as AFCON champions.