Senegal secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Niger at the Me Abdoulaye Wade stadium in Diamniadio on Monday. The Lions, under the strategic guidance of coach Aliou Cissé, exhibited a resilient performance to snatch the win in stoppage time, adding an extra layer of excitement before their departure for Ivory Coast.
Aliou Cissé employed a tactical 3-4-3 formation, fielding Edouard Mendy in goal behind the defensive trio of Koulibaly, Niakhaté, and Diallo.
The midfield quartet consisted of Diatta, Gueye, Camara, and Jakobs, while Sarr, Ndiaye, and Diallo spearheaded the attacking front.
Notably, Sadio Mané, who celebrated his marriage the previous day, started on the bench alongside Gana Gueye and Youssouf Sabaly, while Boulaye Dia’s potential absence for AFCON heightened speculation.
The match witnessed an intense start as Habib Diallo’s header forced an own goal from the Nigerien defense in the 5th minute.
Edouard Mendy faced a crucial moment, narrowly saving the Lions from a Nigerien attack, raising concerns about a potential injury.
However, with resilience, the reigning African champions maintained control and possession, creating opportunities through Jakobs and Camara.
The encounter saw a momentary shift to a moderate pace, with Senegal commanding the ball but failing to convert possession into clear chances.
Pape Gueye’s long-range attempts missed the mark, while the Menas occasionally tested Edouard Mendy, who eventually made way for Mory Diaw at halftime due to a hand injury.
The second half unfolded with Senegal continuing their offensive onslaught. Lamine Camara’s free-kick sailed just over the crossbar, signaling the Lions’ intent.
Pape Gueye and Abdou Diallo attempted to break the deadlock with set-piece opportunities, but Niger’s goalkeeper, Younoussa Hainikoye, remained vigilant.
The defining moment arrived in the 90th +9 minute when Formose Mendy, introduced in the second half, capitalized on a defensive mix-up, slotting the ball into the net from close range.
The late goal sealed Senegal’s 1-0 victory, leaving fans eager and optimistic as the Lions embark on their AFCON 2023 campaign in Ivory Coast.
The thrilling encounter highlighted Senegal’s resilience and determination, setting the stage for an enthralling continental showdown.
𝙁𝙄𝙉 𝘿𝙀 𝙈𝘼𝙏𝘾𝙃 | Le Senegal s’impose en fin de match, face au Niger, grâce à un but de Formose Mendy. Les lions vont s’envoler ce mardi 9 janvier pour la Côte d’Ivoire où ils vont défendre leur titre à l’occasion de la 34e édition de la Coupe d’Afrique des Nations.… pic.twitter.com/Hz2wqOnLa7
— Equipe du Sénégal (@GaindeYi) January 8, 2024
