Senegal Begin 2015 AFCON Qualifiers with Convincing Win Over Egypt
Senegal has made a confident return to the African football stage, securing a 2-0 victory over Egypt in their opening match of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers on Friday night.
The encounter, held at the Léopold Sédar Senghor Stadium in Dakar, marked the stadium’s reopening after a 23-month suspension, and the home fans witnessed a strong performance from the Lions of Teranga.
Senegal took the lead in the 17th minute when Stoke City striker Dame Ndoye expertly set up Biram Diouf. Diouf displayed composure in a one-on-one against Egypt’s goalkeeper Sherif Ekramy to score a precise finish. Ndoye, who had recently impressed in the English Premier League with a notable goal against Manchester City, was again influential.
As the first half neared its end, Senegal doubled their advantage. Sadio Mané, the young Liverpool winger, capitalised on another pass from Ndoye in stoppage time (45+1) to put the hosts in a commanding position going into the break.
The second half saw few clear chances, with Senegal comfortably managing their lead to claim all three points. This victory is a positive start for coach Alain Giresse’s squad, who will look to maintain their momentum when they travel to Botswana for their next qualifier on Wednesday.
Match Line-ups:
Senegal: Coundoul (Captain), Djilobodji, Mbodj, Sané, Souaré, Kouyaté (subbed by Alfred N’Diaye, 87th), Badji, Gueye, Sadio Mané, Mame Diouf (subbed by Mohamed Diamé, 68th), N’Doye (subbed by Moussa Sow, 79th)
Egypt: Ekramy, Fathi, Okka, El-Said, Ghazal, Elmohamady (subbed by Hazem Emam, 60th), El-Nenny, Ghaly (Captain), Hamoudi (subbed by Amr Gamal, 46th), Mohamed Salah, Kamar (subbed by Ahmed Hassan ‘Koka’, 81st)
Senegal’s victory not only restores their pride but also puts them in a strong position in Group G as they aim to qualify for the continental tournament in Morocco next year. Meanwhile, Egypt will need to regroup quickly after a disappointing defeat away from home.
The encounter underscored the rising prominence of Senegalese football, with young talents like Sadio Mané drawing international attention for their pace and skill. The team’s tactical discipline and effective use of key players such as Ndoye and Diouf demonstrated a squad ready to challenge the continent’s best.
Fans and analysts alike will now be eagerly awaiting the return fixture and how both teams adjust their strategies in the coming qualifiers.
