By Clarkson Ogo
Senegal’s long wait for an Africa Cup of Nations title is finally over after they defeated Egypt 4-2 on penalties in the final at the Olembe Stadium in Yaounde on Sunday.
It was a case of third time lucky for the Teranga Lions, who had previously lost in the 2002 and 2019 finals. This time around they got the better of the Pharaohs, who took the game to a full 120 minutes for the fourth successive time at this AFCON, in a shootout after a goalless stalemate.
Senegal started on the front foot and were awarded a penalty as early as the fourth minute, with overlapping left-back Saliou Ciss tripped by Mohamed Abdelmonem as he raced toward the byline. Referee Victor Gomes did not hesitate to point to the spot.
Sadio Mane took the penalty and thundered an effort centrally, only to see it palmed away to safety by Egypt gloves-man Mohamed Gabaski.
The Teranga Lions continued to press forward, with Ismaila Sarr a particular thorn in the side of the Egyptian defence. The Watford winger twice created chances for Mane with crosses from the right flank, but both times the ball had just too much pace for the latter to capitalise.
The Pharaohs had their first shot on target in the 28th minute, and unsurprisingly it was Mohamed Salah who had the attempt, weaving his way past a couple of challenges before a low effort which was comfortably held by Edouard Mendy.
