Senegal, led by coach Aliou Cissé, begins its quest for the continental title with a victory against Gambia. During this match, in the 68th minute, the Senegalese coach sternly reprimanded Kalidou Koulibaly in a very forceful manner.
Senegal kicked off its campaign in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) by defeating Gambia 3-0 in the derby held in Yamoussoukro. In the 4th minute, the Lions took the lead with a goal from Pape Gueye, following a cross from Sadio Mané. Despite an initial response from Gambia with a long-range shot repelled by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, Senegal maintained its dominance.
The first half ended on a controversial note with the expulsion of Gambian midfielder Ebou Adams, initially shown a yellow card but upgraded to red after a VAR review due to a stamp on Lamine Camara’s heel. This decision was followed by an extended interruption of the TV broadcast due to a signal loss.
Lamine Camara responds to Aliou Cissé’s trust
In the second half, despite an attempt from Gambia with a long shot from Musa Barrow, Senegal consolidated its lead. Lamine Camara scored a brace, getting his second goal with a precise shot after a pass from Ismaïla Sarr. The young midfielder then scored a superb curler on his first touch, cleaning the left corner of the opponent’s goal.
This impressive victory sends a strong message to Senegal’s next opponent, Cameroon. Lamine Camara’s exceptional performance, scoring a brace, highlighted the depth of talent in the team led by coach Aliou Cissé. The 20-year-old player has now raised his total to four goals with the Lions, justifying the trust placed in him.
With this convincing victory, Senegal asserts its position as the favorite in the group and lays a solid foundation for the rest of the competition. The team’s overall performance, combining offensive efficiency and defensive solidity, underscores its determination to defend its AFCON title and make a significant impact in the tournament.
The first day of Group C in the 2023 AFCON began with an electrifying match between Senegal and Guinea. The uncompromising rigor of coach Aliou Cissé towards his players, especially captain Kalidou Koulibaly, was evident.
Aliou Cissé firmly corrects Kalidou Koulibaly
In the 68th minute of the game, a tense sequence emerged when Kalidou Koulibaly attempted a long pass to Ismail Jakobs, but precision was lacking, allowing Saido Janko to intervene and clear the ball. Aliou Cissé didn’t miss the mistake of the Senegalese captain, immediately reprimanding his player with palpable firmness, shouting a firm “let’s rotate.”
However, Koulibaly’s response was not what was expected. “It’s fine, it’s the first time I’ve done it. It’s fine,” replied the Senegalese defender, expressing his annoyance at his coach’s reprimand. This response triggered Aliou Cissé’s anger, who, visibly annoyed, expressed his displeasure energetically, gesticulating, shouting, and clearly showing his disagreement with his captain.
This altercation highlights Aliou Cissé’s extreme level of demand, even towards seasoned players like Kalidou Koulibaly. The scene emphasizes the determination of the Senegalese coach to maintain high standards for his team.
As Senegal aims to secure a new continental title, the incident between Cissé and Koulibaly highlights the palpable pressure surrounding this 2023 AFCON campaign and the coach’s determination to bring out the best in his players to achieve this ambitious goal. The “Lions of Teranga” will once again grace Ivorian pitches this Friday, facing Cameroon in the second round.
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