Senegal conquer group D as Tanzania make history

Senegal marched into the AFCON Round of 16 as Group D winners on Tuesday, dispatching Benin 3-0 in Tangier. Despite seeing captain Kalidou Koulibaly sent off, the 2022 champions secured the top spot via goal difference, setting up a favorable knockout clash against either Burkina Faso or Sudan.

The Democratic Republic of Congo matched the Lions' 3-0 scoreline in their victory over Botswana, led by a masterclass from former Chelsea star Gaël Kakuta. However, the Leopards fell just short of the summit by a margin of two goals, condemning them to a daunting heavyweight showdown against Algeria next Tuesday.

DR Congo manager Sébastien Desabre admitted his side pushed for a late fourth goal to force a drawing of lots for the top spot. While they missed out on the group crown, Desabre remained "proud" of his squad’s progression into the knockout phase where a potential quarter-final against Nigeria looms.

The day’s most historic narrative belonged to Tanzania, who secured a monumental first-ever berth in the AFCON knockout stages. Their milestone achievement headlined a day of shifting fortunes, while Benin also progressed as one of the best third-placed teams to face Mohamed Salah’s Egypt.

As the tournament enters the business end in Morocco, Senegal appears to be hitting their stride at the perfect moment. Pape Thiaw’s men remain in Tangier for their next test, looking every bit the title contenders as they hunt for a second continental star.