U-20 AFCON: Senegal Held by Central African Republic as Ghana, DR Congo Share Spoils in Group C Opener

The reigning champions of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (U-20 AFCON), Senegal, were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against a resilient Central African Republic in a tightly contested Group C clash on Friday evening.

After a goalless first half marked by near misses and dominant possession, Senegal finally found their breakthrough in the 49th minute. Cheikh Thiam rose highest to meet a pinpoint cross from Yaya Diémé, powering a header into the top corner to put the defending champions in front.

But the Central African Republic refused to back down. Substitute Diogène Pengazonia delivered the equaliser in the 74th minute, latching onto Jores Mbaïgoto’s perfectly weighted through ball before calmly slotting past the Senegalese goalkeeper, silencing the champions’ celebrations.

Despite late pushes from both sides, including another close-range header from Thiam before his late substitution, neither could find a decisive winner. The match saw four yellow cards handed out, reflecting the physical edge of the contest, and left Senegal frustrated after dominating possession but failing to fully capitalise.

Senegal now face a crucial West African showdown against Ghana as they look to secure a spot in the knockout rounds, while the Central African Republic will aim to build on their disciplined display when they meet DR Congo on Monday.

Meanwhile, Ghana’s opening match against DR Congo ended in a similarly tense 1-1 draw under the lights at the New Suez Stadium. Congo DR struck first in the 16th minute through Samuel Ntanda, who nodded home Messy Manitu’s cross to give the Congolese an early lead.

Ghana responded just eight minutes later, with Musibau Aziz converting after a well-whipped cross from Emmanuel Mensah. The Black Satellites dominated possession for long spells and created several late chances, but Congo DR’s disciplined defence held firm to earn a valuable point.

With all four Group C teams locked on one point apiece after matchday one, the group remains wide open and promises more fireworks as the U-20 AFCON action continues.

Victor Onuh

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