Defending champions Senegal kept their U-20 Africa Cup of Nations dream alive with a gritty 2-0 victory over DR Congo on Thursday, booking their place in the quarter-finals after a tense final round of Group C action.
In a do-or-die encounter at the Suez Canal Stadium, the Young Teranga Lions rose to the occasion, bouncing back from a shaky start to the tournament with a spirited display. Goals from Cheikh Thiam and Ibrahima Dieng secured the vital three points that see Senegal advance to the last eight as group runners-up—only edging out DR Congo on goal difference.
Coming into the match with just one point from their first two games, Senegal knew that nothing short of a win would suffice, especially with Ghana defeating Central African Republic 1-0 in the group’s other fixture. The pressure was on, and the West Africans responded with intensity from the first whistle.
Senegal’s early pressure paid off when Clayton Diandy was brought down in the box in the 9th minute, earning a penalty. Although Thiam’s initial effort was saved, he reacted swiftly to tuck in the rebound in the 11th minute, giving Senegal the crucial early advantage.
DR Congo refused to lie down, with Messy Manitu and Frédéric Ngoyala testing goalkeeper Babacar Ndiaye after the break. But the Congolese attackers lacked the composure needed in front of goal—a shortcoming that would prove fatal to their campaign.
In the 81st minute, a VAR review confirmed a handball by Dieu Kalonji, awarding Senegal a second penalty. This time, Dieng made no mistake, firing confidently from the spot to double the lead and settle Senegalese nerves.
The result sees Senegal finish second in Group C with four points, behind Ghana on seven. DR Congo, despite showing flashes of promise earlier in the group stage, bow out with a win, a draw, and a loss—undone by defensive lapses at key moments.
Senegal now turn their attention to the quarter-finals, where they will face the winners of Group D. As the defending champions chase back-to-back titles—a feat last achieved by Nigeria in 2005—Thursday’s win could mark a turning point in their campaign.
The Young Teranga Lions, backed by a passionate fanbase and brimming with raw talent, will be hoping this resurgence propels them all the way to glory once again.
