Senegal and Tunisia Share Points in Stalemate as Egypt Closes Gap
Dakar — Senegal and Tunisia played out a goalless draw on Friday in Dakar, leaving both sides level at the top of Group G in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign.
The third-round fixture saw the Lions of Teranga dominate possession and territory, but they were unable to break down a resolute Tunisian defence. Under coach Georges Leekens, the visitors opted for a five-man backline that successfully blunted Senegal’s attacking threat throughout the match.
Despite a strong home performance, Senegal coach Alain Giresse admitted his side struggled to turn their dominance into clear scoring chances.
“The Tunisian team came looking for a draw and succeeded in breaking the rhythm of the match,” Giresse told Galsenfoot. “We can’t blame the players too much given the difficult conditions. Tunisia were very compact and hard to break down.”
Senegal’s challenge was compounded by early injuries. Defender Kara Mbodji was forced off within the first 15 minutes, followed later by forward Moussa Sow. Midfielder Salif Sané also required close monitoring due to hesitancy and signs of fatigue.
“After the first quarter of an hour, we already had our first injured player. Then Moussa Sow went off, and we had to protect Salif Sané. These were difficult circumstances,” Giresse explained. “Still, we tried to push higher in the second half and found a few gaps, but Tunisia were very well-organised.”
Although the draw denied Senegal a third consecutive win in the group stage, it did not derail their qualification ambitions. The result leaves both Senegal and Tunisia with seven points from three matches, keeping them joint-top of Group G.
Egypt, meanwhile, gained ground with a 2-0 victory over Botswana earlier in the day. The Pharaohs now sit third with four points and three matches remaining, keeping their hopes alive after a disappointing start to the campaign.
For Tunisia, the draw will be seen as a tactical success. Leekens’ decision to prioritise defensive solidity over attacking ambition paid off, as the North Africans frustrated the hosts and left Dakar with a valuable point.
“Today, Tunisia didn’t win, but Senegal didn’t lose either,” Giresse concluded. “What was missing was that final touch of precision. Everyone made an effort. The context was truly unique.”
With the reverse fixtures set to be played soon, Group G remains finely balanced. Both Senegal and Tunisia will look to build on their unbeaten starts, while Egypt aim to maintain momentum in the chase for a top-two finish and a place at the 2015 tournament in Morocco.
