U20 AFCON: Souleymane Faye’s strike get’s Senegal off to a perfect start against Nigeria

Senegal’s national under-20 team got off to a good start on Sunday by defeating Nigeria 1-0, in day one of the TotalEnergies U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON U20) that will last from February 19 to March 11.

The Senegalese goal, which came totally against the run of play, was scored by Souleymane Faye in the 38th minute of the match played in Cairo, Egypt.

The Nigerians dominated much of the first half and had the best chances to score, but failed to do so.

Senegalese goalkeeper Landing Badji made himself big and countered all the chances that came from the opposition team.

Nigeria had the opportunity to open the scoring in the 31st minute, through Alade olamilekan but the Nigerian player’s header was too weak to worry Badji.

On the Senegalese side there were a few attempts including a header from Pape Diallo in the 33rd minute, and that was about it, as his attempt was captured by the opposing goalkeeper.

Nigeria seemed to be in perfect control of the match before being surprised by a Senegal counterattack that resulted to a goal by Souleymane Faye.

In the second period, Nigeria kept the pressure on the Senegalese side, but the Cubs remained solid with a low block from which they proceeded on the other hand.

Senegal almost scored a second within five minutes of added time, but Libasse Ngom of Guédiawaye FC, who was a substitute, missed two chances; one of which landed on the crossbar of the Nigerian goalkeeper.

In additional time, Ahmed Abdullahi was expelled from the Nigerian side, for second yellow.

With this result, Malick Daf’s players take the lead in Pool A, after the goalless draw that obtained in the Egypt-Mozambique match.

Senegal will play their next game in Cairo on Wednesday.