Senegal targets historic group stage perfection against Guinea in AFCON 2023

The Senegal National Team, already having secured a place in the Round of 16 of the CAN 2023, sets its sights on achieving an unprecedented flawless performance in the group stage against Guinea.

The Lions, triumphant in their encounters against Gambia (3-0) and Cameroon (3-1), face familiar foes, Guinea, at the Charles-Konan-Banny Stadium in Yamoussoukro on Tuesday at 5:00 p.m. GMT.

The matchup revives memories of the last African Cup of Nations where Senegal faced Guinea in a hard-fought 0-0 draw, ultimately clinching their maiden trophy in the tournament’s history.

Prior to the 2022 triumph, the Lions maintained an unblemished record against Guinea, securing victories with a 2-1 scoreline in the 1994 group stage and a 3-2 victory in the 2006 quarter-finals.

Having already booked their ticket to the Round of 16, the Lions understand that the outcome of this match will significantly impact their journey in the competition.

A victory or draw would secure the top spot in their group, setting the stage for a clash with a team from the best third-placed finishers between Group A and F.

If they falter, they could potentially face Nigeria, who secured the second spot in Group A.

The path to the quarter-finals for Senegal holds the promise of a challenging encounter, potentially against the host country Ivory Coast or the formidable Super Eagles.

Coach Aliou Cissé, in a press conference on Monday, acknowledged the historical significance of aiming for a perfect group stage but emphasized the greater importance of finishing atop the group for logistical advantages.

Intriguingly, Senegal, in its 16 appearances in the African Cup of Nations, has never managed to win all of its group matches.

The quest for perfection in the group stage serves not only as a testament to their prowess on the field but also as a strategic move to maintain their base in Yamoussoukro, acclimatizing to the conditions ahead of the Round of 16.

While the prospect of rewriting history is compelling, Cissé underscored the strategic importance of the match, stating, “Beyond the accounting aspect, it is an important match in terms of logistics.

It is very important that we can stay here, in Yamoussoukro, where we have our base. Our players are starting to get used to this climate.

To do this, you have to finish first.” The Lions are poised for a memorable encounter, aiming to secure their third victory in the group stage and set the stage for a formidable campaign in the knockout rounds.