Comeback win shows Senegal's mettle: Gueye

Crowned African champions in 2022, Senegal are seen as the biggest threats to hosts Morocco’s dreams of winning their first Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) title in half a century.

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Senegal's Ibrahim Mbaye (No. 27) celebrating with Boulaye Dia and Pape Gueye after scoring in their 3-1 Afcon win over Sudan in Tangier on Jan 3. PHOTO: AFP

(AFP)

The Lions of Teranga believe that their strong team spirit is the key to achieving that goal.

On Jan 3, Pape Gueye scored twice as much-fancied Senegal came from behind to beat Sudan 3-1 and seal a place in the quarterfinals, while 10-man Mali edged out Tunisia in a dramatic penalty shootout.

Pape Thiaw’s team had already come from behind to salvage a draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo during the group stage, and Gueye said the victory showcased their fighting spirit.

"We showed against Congo that we are capable of coming from behind in a game and that is what we did tonight, so we are very happy," remarked the midfielder.

"It means a lot. It shows how good the spirit in the camp is. It was a very difficult match. We played against Sudan before and they made life hard for us.