Senegal secured qualification for the next phase of the U17 AFCON and reached the final of the UFOA A U17 tournament by beating Guinea 3-0 in Thursday’s semi-final.
The result looked less certain for much of the match, with Guinea remaining in contention until the closing stages. Senegal made the stronger start after a cautious opening and took the lead in the 14th minute.
Moussa Ndiaye headed in from a free-kick delivered by Maguette Gueye, giving the Senegalese side an early advantage.
Guinea gradually found its way into the contest and created opportunities to level. However, Salif Camara and his team-mates were unable to make the most of their chances, while Senegal goalkeeper Assane Sarr stood firm to protect his goal.
Sarr’s saves ensured Senegal reached half-time still in front without conceding.
Guinea posed a greater threat after the restart, while Senegal concentrated on protecting its lead and looking for openings on the counter-attack. The Guinean side continued to struggle with its finishing as the match entered its final stages.
Senegal’s approach paid off in the 89th minute when Souleymane Commissaire Faye scored to make it 2-0.
There were five minutes of added time, leaving Guinea with a final opportunity to produce a remarkable comeback. Instead, its hopes were ended almost immediately after the restart.
Senegal won a free-kick in circumstances similar to those that led to the opening goal, and Cheikh Thior converted it to complete the scoring and settle the tie.
Guinea’s difficulties increased further when Aboubacar Kourouma was sent off for a foul committed while he was the last defender.
Senegal will now play in the final of the UFOA A U17 tournament and has also earned the chance to defend its title at the next final phase of the U17 AFCON.