RABAT, Morocco (AP) — Senegal has a new star.
French-born 17-year-old Ibrahim Mbaye has rejuvenated the team and was the driving force behind Sadio Mane’s goal in Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Congo in the African Cup of Nations.
Senegal dominated possession and chances, with Nicholas Jackson and Mane once again missing opportunities, similar to their first win against Botswana.
Congo took the lead in the 61st minute when Edouard Mendy saved Theo Bongonda’s first shot before Cedric Bakambu pounced on the rebound.
Senegal coach Pape Thiau reacted by bringing on Mbaye and the 17-year-old made an immediate impact, but there was little chance that Bongonda would make it 2-0 at the break.
Mbae ran towards a Congolese defender, his shot was saved by goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, and Mane tucked the rebound in to equalize in the 69th minute.
Mbaye was freed after Congolese defender Arthur Masuaku was pulled out of the match with what appeared to be an Achilles tendon injury. While Masuaku was unable to continue, Mbaye got another chance to shine in Senegal’s final group game against Benin.
Prior to this, Benin defeated Botswana 1-0 with a first-half goal from Johan Roche, which was enough to secure their first win.
After two games, Senegal leads Group D with four points, ahead of Congo on goal difference, followed by Benin in third place with three wins and three losses, followed by Botswana with zero points.
The top two automatically advance to the top 16, and the top three automatically advance to the final 16.
After winning their first match in Group C, Nigeria then faced Tunisia, while Uganda and Tanzania were looking for their first wins.
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Associated Press on Africa Cup: https://apnews.com/hub/africa-cup-of-nations
