AFCON 2023: Sadio Mane heads Senegal into last 16 with win over Cameroon

Senegal's midfielder #26 Pape Gueye celebrates with teammates at the end of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2024 group C football match between Senegal and Cameroon at the Stade Charles Konan Banny in Yamoussoukro on January 19, 2024. (Photo by KENZO TRIBOUILLARD / AFP) (Photo by KENZO TRIBOUILLARD/AFP via Getty Images)

Defending champions Senegal booked their place in the last 16 of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations with a 3-1 win over Cameroon in Group C.

Ismaila Sarr put Senegal in front in the 16th minute and Habib Diallo made it 2-0 midway through the second half.

Jean-Charles Castelletto headed in to pull one back with seven minutes remaining to set up a nervy ending.

But, after George-Kevin Nkoudou had missed a free header to equalise, Sadio Mane sealed the win in stoppage time.

Senegal will top Group C if they avoid defeat in their final group outing against Guinea on Tuesday (17:00 GMT).

Guinea are second in the table after beating The Gambia 1-0 in the late game on Friday - a result which means Cameroon will most likely need to beat the Scorpions on Tuesday (17:00 GMT) to progress to the knockout stages.

The five-time continental champions, who have one point from two games, could go through as one of four best third-placed sides if they do not overhaul Guinea on goal difference or goals scored.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Tags:

AFCON 2023

Cameroon

Senegal