Senegal’s Tactical Choices Under Scrutiny After Draw Against South Africa
Following their 1-1 draw with South Africa, debates are rife within the Senegalese delegation in Mongomo, focusing particularly on coach Alain Giresse’s decisions. Notably, Giresse made five changes from the lineup that secured Senegal’s opening 1-0 victory over Ghana. The new starters included Moussa Sow, Alfred Ndiaye, Lamine Gassama, Sadio Mané, and Cheikh Mbengue.
These adjustments seemingly impacted Senegal’s tactical cohesion, as they were largely dominated by a well-organized South African side during the match. Senegal conceded early in the 48th minute and only managed to equalize in the 59th. Many Senegalese specialists, supporters, and journalists now view these lineup changes as a key factor in the team’s underwhelming performance.
Despite leading Group C with four points, Senegal’s path to the quarter-finals remains uncertain. To guarantee progression, they must at least secure a draw in their upcoming critical match against Algeria — who themselves must win to advance. This makes the upcoming fixture on Tuesday, January 27, at the Malabo stadium a pivotal showdown.
From Dakar to Mongomo, Senegalese fans and officials are already intensely focused on this decisive clash against the Algerian Fennecs.
