Champions, Senegal defeat Gambia in AFCON 2023 opener

Senegal kicks off with a strong start, defeating Gambia 3-0 in their debut at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, in a match held at Yamoussoukro.

The Senegalese national team began their quest for a back-to-back AFCON titles with an impressive 3-0 victory over Gambia, in a game that was evenly contested from the start in favor of the Senegalese side.

In the match, Senegal took the lead earlier on, Lamine Camara scored in the 4th minute via a superb assist from Sadio Mané.

In first half stoppage time, things became challenging for Gambia as Ebou Adams was red-carded for unsportsmanlike conduct, leaving his disadvantaged.

Later, in the second half of the match, 20-year-old Metz player Lamine Camara extended the lead to 2-0 at the 51st minute with a fantastic run in the area and a well-placed shot that left goalkeeper Baboucarr Gaye with no chance, to complete his brace.

In the closing moments of the match, Lamine Camara once again made an impact, securing Senegal’s advantage with a spectacular goal from outside the area at the 86th minute.

The young player marked a double in his debut at the Africa Cup of Nations, providing an excellent start to Senegal’s bid for a consecutive AFCON championships.

Senegal will continue their journey in AFCON 2023 next Friday when they face Cameroon, a match that is sure to be one of the most exciting in this group stage. On the other hand, Gambia will seek to turn things around when they face Guinea, with the match also scheduled for Friday, January 19, 2024