Lions roar late as Senegal cruise through Group D

Senegal sent a clear warning to the rest of the field at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025, delivering a composed and ruthless performance to see off Benin and secure top spot in Group D.

In a contest that blended control, patience and late drama, the former champions showed their depth and maturity — even after being reduced to ten men — to underline their status as genuine title contenders.

Set-piece strength gives Senegal control

Senegal started with intent, moving the ball sharply and pinning Benin deep for long spells. Their pressure finally told in the 38th minute, when Abdoulaye Seck rose highest to power home a header from Krépin Diatta’s pinpoint set piece.

It was a deserved breakthrough and one that reflected Senegal’s dominance in the first half, as Benin struggled to gain any sustained foothold in midfield.

Mané turns provider as Senegal pull clear

Benin emerged with greater urgency after the break and tested Édouard Mendy through Aiyegun Tosin and Junior Olaïtan, but Senegal’s defensive structure remained intact.

The decisive second goal arrived just past the hour mark. Sadio Mané, influential throughout, slipped a clever pass into the box for Habib Diallo, who showed composure to finish clinically and double Senegal’s advantage.

Red card drama fails to derail Senegal

The match took a dramatic turn in the 71st minute when captain Kalidou Koulibaly was shown a red card following a VAR review, forcing Senegal to defend with ten men for the remainder of the contest.

Benin pushed forward in search of a lifeline and forced Mendy into a series of saves, but Senegal absorbed the pressure calmly and waited for their moment.

That moment came deep into stoppage time. After Ibrahim Mbaye was brought down in the area, substitute Cherif Ndiaye stepped up and calmly converted from the penalty spot to seal a commanding 3–0 scoreline.

Group winners with momentum

The victory confirms Senegal as Group D winners, while Benin also progress to the Round of 16 as one of the best third-placed teams.

With control, depth and resilience on display — even under pressure — Senegal head into the knockout stages with confidence firmly on their side.