Cape Verde, Senegal reach knockout stage, 2023 AFCON summary for Jan. 19
Three matches were played in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Friday, January 20, 2024, here is a summery of all three games.
Cape Verde Secures Last-16 Spot with Convincing Win Over Mozambique
Cape Verde emerged victorious with a resounding 3-0 win against Mozambique in the Africa Cup of Nations, securing their place in the last 16 of the tournament. The match took place in Group B.
Cape Verde’s winger, Bebe, who gained recognition for his surprise transfer to Manchester United in 2010, played a crucial role in the victory. The 33-year-old scored from a set piece on the 32nd minute, exploiting a defensive error by Mozambique’s goalkeeper, Ernan Siluane, who conceded from a long-range effort.
Cape Verde’s captain, Ryan Mendes, extended the lead on the 51st minute after Edmilson Dove’s defensive error led to lost possession on the edge of the box. Kevin Pina sealed the victory with a brilliant third goal, striking a fierce shot into the top corner from outside the area.
The match in Abidjan was largely one-sided, with Geny Catamo posing the most significant threats for Mozambique. Catamo earned a penalty in the first half, which was overturned by a video review, and he also struck the woodwork with a free-kick.
Cape Verde’s victory leaves them atop Group B with six points after two matches, becoming the first team to qualify for the knockout round. Egypt sits in second place with four points, while both Mozambique and Ghana have a single point each.
Senegal Secures Round of 16 Spot with Victory Over Cameroon
Senegal has secured its place in the Round of 16 of the 2023 AFCON with a commanding 3-1 win over Cameroon in Yamoussoukro.
The defending champions continued their impressive campaign following an opening victory over Gambia.
The Senegalese team displayed their prowess with goals on either side of the break. Ismaïla Sarr and Habib Diallo found the back of the net, setting Senegal on a decisive course for the knockout stages.
Despite a late surge from Cameroon, with Jean-Charles Castelletto scoring a header to apply pressure in the final minutes, Senegal’s star player Sadio Mane secured the victory with a goal in added time. Mane’s goal marked his 40th international goal, emphasizing his significance to the Senegalese team.
Guinea Edges The Gambia 1-0 in AFCON 2023
Guinea secured a crucial 1-0 victory against The Gambia in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, moving closer to a spot in the Round of 16. The decisive goal came in the second half when Aguibou Camara capitalized on Morgan Guilavogui’s pass.
The win lifts Guinea to second place in Group C with four points, positioning them well for advancement in the tournament. Mohamed Bayo came close to doubling the lead but struck the crossbar with a shot from Guilavogui’s delivery.
Despite The Gambia’s efforts, including a disallowed goal from Yankuba Minteh due to an offside decision, they were unable to find the finishing touch. Guinea’s goalkeeper, Baboucarr Gaye, played a crucial role in denying scoring opportunities for The Gambia.
The victory sets up a crucial clash between Guinea and Cameroon in their final group-stage match, where Guinea aims to secure a top-two spot and advance to the knockout stage. The outcome of this match will significantly impact the teams’ progression in the AFCON 2023.
