By Eseoghene Emuke
Senegal has won the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations held in Cameroon after defeating the Pharaohs of Egypt on penalties after a goalless draw on Sunday.
It’s the first time the Senegalese national team will be lifting the coveted trophy since they started participating in the competition.
They defeated the 7-time AFCON winner, Egypt by 4 goals to 2 on penalties.
In the Olembé stadium of Yaoundé, the Teranga Lions gained the upper hand on the Pharaohs of Mo Salah.
This victory crowns an entire tournament for Mané’s teammates. Starting in the 4th minute, Mohamed Abou Gabal, the Egyptian goalkeeper, made a save. This missed penalty did not get the fingers of the Senegalese burnt. Despite a 57% ball possession Senegalese faced a phenomenal Egyptian goalkeeper.
Tied 0-0 by the end of the second half, the two teams had to come back on the pitch. During extra-time goal-scoring chances on both sides didn’t turned into actual goals.
The penalty shoot-out eventually settled the squads. With two miss from the penalty spot, Egypt lost to the Senegal.
Sadio Mané and his team offer the 16 million Senegalese their very first African Cup of Nations title.
