Senegal defeated The Gambia 1-0 in their first Group C match at the TotalEnergies CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday, thanks to an impressive early free kick from Ibrahima Sow.
Senegal got off to a fantastic start at the Stade Ben Ahmed El Abdi in El Jadida when Sow curled a superb right-footed shot into the top corner from a free kick in the seventh minute.
In this heated clash between neighboring West African countries, securing three points was the primary goal. The Gambia responded with bursts of possession and pressure, particularly in the second half.
In the 87th minute, Ebrima Jatta had a close-range opportunity that narrowly missed the target, highlighting one of the dangerous moments created by the Young Scorpions.
Senegal’s disciplined defense stood firm against late pressure from Gambia. Cheikh Dieng and Lamine Mbengue were crucial in thwarting attacks, while goalkeeper Alpha Mbengue made a vital save in the 69th minute to deny Bisenty Mendy from long range.
Despite having chances to extend their lead—especially when Mouhamed Wagner and Ousseynou Ndiaye both missed close shots in the second half—Senegal held on to their one-goal advantage.
With this victory, Senegal now leads the group table with three points. The next match in the group is scheduled for Tuesday night when Tunisia faces Somalia.
Senegal will play Tunisia on Friday, while The Gambia needs to bounce back quickly when they face Somalia in their next group match.
