The Stade Charles Konan Banny de Yamoussoukro will reverberate with anticipation as Guinea lock horns with Senegal in a decisive Group C clash at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The National Elephants need just one point to secure a top-two finish in the group and guarantee their qualification for the knockout stage, while the Teranga Lions, who have already sealed their place in the last 16, must avoid defeat to finish top of the group. Senegal secured their place in the knockout stages of AFCON 2023 after a thrilling 3-1 victory over Cameroon in their second group game.
With top spot in the group up for grabs, Senegal will look to maintain their unbeaten run in their final group game on Tuesday. Avoiding defeat would guarantee them first place and potentially a more favourable tie in the next round.
A single point will be enough for the Guineans to seal a top-two spot and book their place in the knockout stages. However, defeat would leave them reliant on Cameroon dropping points against Gambia or a superior goal difference should both teams finish on four points.
It is worth noting that Guinea and Senegal shared the same group at the previous AFCON, playing out a goalless draw. The National Elephants will undoubtedly hope to replicate that result against the reigning champions on Tuesday.
Expect a cagey affair, with both teams hesitant to take undue risks. While Senegal’s superior attacking weapons and experience, even with a potential change in their forward line, should give them the advantage, Guinea’s resolute determination to secure qualification could make this a tighter encounter than many predict.
Credit: sportsmole.co.uk
