Tangiers: Sadio Mane’s equaliser earned 2022 champions Senegal a 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo in their Africa Cup of Nations clash. Cedric Bakambu had initially put the Leopards ahead just after the hour mark, but Mane’s swift response ensured Senegal remained at the top of Group D, with both teams having four points. Senegal holds a superior goal difference ahead of their final group match against Benin on Tuesday.
According to France24.com, Benin secured a 1-0 victory against Botswana earlier on Saturday in Rabat, leaving Botswana at the bottom without a point or a goal scored. Sebastien Desabre’s Congolese side was seeking revenge following a dramatic defeat in a previous World Cup qualifying match in September, where Senegal clawed back from a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2 in Kinshasa. That victory propelled Senegal to the top of their group, earning them a spot in next year’s finals in North America.
DR Congo, finishing second, still has a chance to qualify for the World Cup through a play-o
ff against either New Caledonia or Jamaica in Mexico in March. Senegal, after a recent 3-0 victory over Botswana, is considered a significant contender against Morocco’s title hopes on home soil. Despite having more possession and opportunities, Senegal fell behind in the 61st minute when Theo Bongonda’s shot was parried by Edouard Mendy, allowing Bakambu to score.
Senegal was behind for just eight minutes, thanks to a brilliant run by teenage substitute Ibrahim Mbaye. The 17-year-old Paris Saint-Germain winger, who recently committed to Senegal, set up the equaliser after a penetrating run down the right, evading Arthur Masuaku and having his shot blocked by Lionel Mpasi. Mane seized the opportunity to score, marking his 10th AFCON goal in his sixth tournament appearance.