Sadio Mane scored a second-half equaliser as Senegal came from behind to draw 1-1 with DR Congo in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group D match in Tangier on Friday.
Cedric Bakambu put DR Congo ahead in the 60th minute, finishing after Edouard Mendy had initially saved Theo Bongonda’s shot.
Senegal responded eight minutes later when Mane converted a rebound from a parried effort by substitute Ibrahim Mbaye.
Senegal had dominated the first half but missed several chances. Nicolas Jackson and Ismaila Sarr both went close, while Mane’s free-kick narrowly missed. Pape Gueye also forced a save from the Congolese goalkeeper before halftime.The draw keeps Senegal top of Group D with four points, level with DR Congo but ahead on goal difference. Both sides will play their final group games on Tuesday, with Senegal facing Benin and DR Congo taking on Botswana.
Mane, who was named man of the match told CAF Online, “One point is not too bad as our opponents DR Congo were determined and played very well. They were good and compact in defence, they did not take any unnecessary risks, so they also deserve the one point.
“We are not completely unhappy, as the AFCON is always tough. It was a tough match, and in this competition you cannot underrate any team.”