Teranga Lions roar past Benin despite Koulibaly Red Card
Senegal grabbed the top spot in Group D of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations by defeating Benin 3-0 at the Grand Stade de Tanger.
The victory was a testament to the depth of the Lions of Teranga, who managed to extend their lead and maintain a clean sheet despite playing the final twenty minutes of the match with only ten men.
The breakthrough came late in the first half when Abdoulaye Seck rose highest to meet a pinpoint free-kick from Krepin Diatta, heading the ball firmly past the Beninese goalkeeper in the 38th minute. Senegal continued to dictate the tempo after the interval, and their persistence paid off in the 63rd minute. Sadio Mané showcased his playmaking brilliance by weaving through the defense and providing a perfect cutback for Habib Diallo, who finished with clinical precision to double the lead.
The match took a dramatic turn in the 71st minute when Senegal’s captain, Kalidou Koulibaly, was shown a straight red card following a VAR review for a professional foul. This left the defending champions vulnerable, but Benin struggled to capitalize on their numerical advantage against a well-organized Senegalese backline. Instead, it was Senegal who found the net once more in stoppage time. After young substitute Ibrahim Mbaye was brought down in the penalty area, Cherif Ndiaye stepped up to convert the spot-kick, sealing a comprehensive 3-0 win.
This result ensures that Senegal finishes the group stage as leaders, narrowly edging out DR Congo on goal difference. While Senegal prepares for a Round of 16 matchup in Tangier, they will have to navigate their next fixture without the suspended Koulibaly.
Benin, despite the heavy defeat, manages to advance to the knockout stages as one of the best third-placed teams, setting up a challenging encounter against Egypt.
