TotalEnergies CAF U-20 AFCON: Ghana edge Senegal in tightly contested duel

Ghana moved into second place in Group C of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations on Monday after a narrow but crucial 1-0 victory over reigning champions Senegal thanks to an early strike from Emmanuel Mensah.

The decisive moment came in the 15th minute when Mensah showed great composure inside the box, latching onto a low cross from Jerry Afriyie before coolly slotting a left-footed effort into the bottom right corner.

The early goal set the tone for a high-intensity match filled with drama, physicality and a flurry of goalmouth action.

Senegal responded with relentless attacking pressure, but Ghana’s resolute defending and goalkeeping heroics kept their opponents at bay.

Ibrahima Dieng was particularly lively for the Young Teranga Lions, registering multiple attempts on goal, including a close-range header in the 81st minute that was smartly saved.

The second half saw an increased urgency from Senegal, who introduced fresh legs with Omar Sarr and Norbert Gomis in an effort to break down Ghana’s disciplined backline.

Despite creating several chances—most notably from Clayton Diandy whose long-range shots tested the Ghanaian keeper—Senegal were unable to find an equaliser.

The final minutes of the match were nervy, with seven minutes of time added on. Senegal pushed forward desperately but were denied by last-ditch defending and excellent goalkeeping with Diandy’s shot in the 93rd minute being the closest they came to drawing level.

Ghana held firm to claim all three points, a result that places them in a strong position in the group and boosts confidence ahead of the next fixture against the Central African Republic in Ismailia on Thursday.

Ghana moved to second position just behind DR Congo on goal difference with both on four points. The result sees the defending champions facing the danger of not qualifying for the knockout stages as they have only a single point.