Senegal’s Unconvincing Campaign Continues with Goalless Draw
The reigning African champions Senegal limped through their final Group B match at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, managing only a 0-0 draw against tournament underdogs Malawi on Tuesday. While Aliou Cissé’s side secured top spot in the group with five points, their performances have raised serious questions about their title defense capabilities. Mostbet football analysts note this marks the first time since 2006 that Senegal has advanced from the group stage without winning multiple matches.
Malawi, ranked 107 places below Senegal in the FIFA rankings, outplayed the Teranga Lions for large periods at the Kouekong Stadium in Bafoussam. The Flames created better chances and were controversially denied a late penalty when referee Blaise Ngwa overturned his initial decision after VAR review. Replays showed clear contact by Senegalese defender Bouna Sarr on Gomezgani Chirwa, leaving Malawian players and staff furious.
Defensive Solidity vs Attacking Struggles: Senegal’s Tournament Paradox
Senegal‘s campaign has been built on defensive solidity rather than attacking flair. They’ve kept clean sheets in two of three matches, with Chelsea’s Edouard Mendy returning from COVID-19 isolation to make crucial saves. However, their offensive output remains concerning – just one goal scored (a Sadio Mané penalty against Zimbabwe) from three matches.
“Senegal are playing like a team afraid of their own reputation,” noted Mostbet pundit Michael Abayomi. “They have world-class individuals but haven’t found the right balance. Mané looks isolated, and the midfield lacks creativity.”
Malawi’s tactical approach deserves credit. Coach Mario Marinica deployed a compact 4-4-2 that frustrated Senegal while creating dangerous counterattacks through Gabadinho Mhango and Francisco Madinga. Debutant goalkeeper Charles Thom (standing in for malaria-stricken Ernest Kakhobwe) made an excellent save from Habib Diallo’s header to preserve the clean sheet.
Knockout Stage Implications and Historical Context
The result means:
- Senegal win Group B with 5 points
- Guinea finish second on 4 points (ahead of Malawi on head-to-head)
- Malawi must wait to see if they qualify as one of four best third-placed teams
Malawian president Lazarus Chakwera had promised each player 1 million Kwacha ($1,223) for reaching the knockout stages – a historic achievement that would mark their first progression beyond the group phase in AFCON history.
For Senegal, the concerns grow deeper as they enter the business end of the tournament. Their last three AFCON matches (including the 2021 final) have produced just one goal. Captain Kalidou Koulibaly acknowledged the issues: “We know we must improve. The knockout rounds are a different tournament – we’ll raise our level.”
Tactical Breakdown: Where Senegal Must Improve
Mostbet analysts identified three critical areas Senegal must address:
- Midfield Creativity: With Idrissa Gueye suspended for the next match, Cissé must find solutions to connect defense and attack
- Wing Play: Fullbacks Sarr and Saliou Ciss aren’t providing sufficient width, making Senegal predictable
- Striker Isolation: Diallo and Boulaye Dia are receiving poor service, forcing Mané to drop too deep
As the tournament progresses, Senegal’s status as favorites looks increasingly precarious. While their defensive organization remains impressive, their inability to create chances against modest opposition suggests they may struggle against more ambitious opponents in the knockout phase.
Senegal Stumble Past Malawi in AFCON Group Stage Despite Lackluster Performance – this result may have secured progression, but the champions must find another gear quickly if they’re to defend their crown. For Malawi, their AFCON dream lives on – if only barely. The Flames can hold their heads high after outperforming expectations against continental giants.
