Senegal Held by Spirited South Africa in Tight Group C Encounter
Despite fielding a high-profile attacking trio of Sadio Mané, Moussa Sow, and Mame Biram Diouf, Senegal found it difficult to break down a determined South African side in their second Group C match at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations in Mongomo.
Much of the early initiative came from Bafana Bafana, who looked the more dangerous side during the opening stages. In the 12th minute, a quick exchange between Tokelo Rantie and Sibusiso Vilakazi nearly paid off. Vilakazi unleashed a powerful right-footed effort from 16 yards, forcing a smart save from Senegalese goalkeeper Bouna Coundoul, who tipped the ball behind for a corner.
South Africa’s pressing and pace troubled the Senegalese defence throughout the first half, with coach Ephraim “Shakes” Mashaba’s men showing more attacking intent than their first match against Algeria.
Senegal, while boasting star quality up front, struggled to generate clear-cut chances. Their best opportunity of the half came in the dying moments when Mame Biram Diouf rose to meet a corner, only to send his header narrowly wide of the post.
It was a half that saw Bafana Bafana threaten more consistently, while the Lions of Teranga lacked their usual clinical edge. Senegal will need to rediscover their attacking rhythm if they hope to secure qualification from what is proving to be one of the tournament’s most competitive groups.
