AFCON 2015: Algeria Face Must-Win Showdown Against Senegal as Group C Reaches Boiling Point
By BBC Sport Africa | January 31, 2015
Group C of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations is set for a dramatic finale, with continental heavyweights Algeria and Ghana both at risk of an early exit. On Tuesday, two high-stakes encounters—Algeria vs Senegal and Ghana vs South Africa—will determine which sides advance to the quarter-finals, and which are left to rue missed opportunities.
Algeria, widely considered one of the tournament favourites following their impressive showing at the 2014 World Cup, now find themselves in a precarious position. Christian Gourcuff’s men opened with a hard-fought 3-1 win over South Africa, but a last-gasp goal from Ghana’s Asamoah Gyan condemned them to a 1-0 defeat in their second outing.
Now second in the group with three points, the Fennecs must beat group leaders Senegal—who sit atop with four points—to secure progression to the knockout stage. Anything less could see them crash out of the tournament.
Speaking ahead of the decisive clash, Algeria head coach Christian Gourcuff insisted that his side will remain faithful to their attacking philosophy, despite the pressure of the occasion.
“We will try to play our usual game, even if there is an opponent who will try to upset us,” Gourcuff said during a pre-match press conference. “In the first two matches, we had two different outcomes. As for the approach to this match, there will be no change in our playing philosophy. It will be a final for us—we are obliged to win. There will be fewer calculations to make.”
Senegal, under the guidance of Alain Giresse, have made a strong start to the tournament. A comeback victory over Ghana (2-1) and a draw against South Africa (1-1) have placed them in a commanding position. A draw against Algeria would be enough to secure their place in the last eight.
Meanwhile, Ghana, buoyed by the return and late heroics of captain Asamoah Gyan, face South Africa in the other crucial group fixture. The Black Stars must win to ensure qualification, while Bafana Bafana still have a slim chance—requiring a victory by at least two goals and a favourable result in the group’s other match.
As the dust settles on one of the most tightly contested groups in AFCON history, the final day promises high drama, heartbreak, and jubilation in equal measure. One thing is certain: at least one African powerhouse will be going home early.
