The Senegal vs. Ivory Coast match in Casablanca on Saturday appeared to be overshadowed by tension as both teams struggled to make a breakthrough in the first half. The Lions of Teranga, needing to overturn a two-goal deficit, faced a formidable Ivory Coast side who managed their advantage from the first leg effectively.
Sadio Mané posed a threat to Kolo Touré on the right flank, while Gervinho engaged in battles with Kara Mbodji on the other side. Despite these individual duels, clear goal-scoring opportunities were scarce. When chances did arise, they often ended awkwardly, as seen with missed opportunities from players like Dame Ndoye and Papiss Cisse.
The first half concluded with a 0-0 scoreline, leaving Ivory Coast in control of the ticket to Brazil. The Elephants were successfully managing their lead, making it challenging for Senegal to mount a comeback.
