Senegal staged a remarkable comeback by defeating Nigeria 3-2 in the final Group B matches of the men’s football competition at the 13th edition of the African Games on Friday.
Senegal player Idrisa Gueye was the hero for his side as he scored twice in a thrilling encounter at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The U20 national teams battled it out for a place in the semi-finals, with Senegal pulling off a dramatic upset to secure their place in the next phase of the competition.
Nigeria started well, took the lead in the 1st minute with Charles Agada’s first goal.
However, Senegal responded strongly, with Idrisa Gueye scoring twice in quick succession in the 21st and 27th minutes to turn the tide in their favour.
Nigeria hit back early in the second half, with Favor Izuogu equalizing in the 49th minute to set up a tense finale.
The momentum swung once again in Senegal’s favor when Sergine Diouf converted a penalty in the 65th minute to put his side back in front.
Despite Nigeria’s efforts to find an equaliser, Senegal’s defense held firm, securing a hard-fought victory and a place in the semi-finals of the competition.
The defeat saw Nigeria crash out of the tournament, ending their campaign in disappointment.
Uganda clinched first place with a win over South Sudan
Meanwhile, at the Legon Sports Stadium, Uganda secured their place at the top of Group B with a narrow 1-0 win over South Sudan in the other group game.
The defining moment of the match came in the 74th minute when Appollo Kagogwe found the net with a fine finish to give Uganda a crucial lead.
Uganda’s defense held firm, ensuring they finished the group stage with maximum points and secured their place in the semi-finals of the competition.
With the win, Uganda topped the table with nine points, while Senegal finished second with six points.
Nigeria’s defeat meant they finished with three points, while South Sudan ended their campaign with zero points.
Uganda’s impressive performance sees them advance to the semi-finals, where they will face stiff competition as they aim for the gold medal.