Senegal underlined their credentials as serious Africa Cup of Nations contenders with a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin in Tangier on Tuesday night, finishing top of Group D despite playing the closing stages with ten men.
The Teranga Lions were already assured of qualification heading into the final group fixture, but they showed no signs of easing off as they delivered a dominant performance that kept Benin largely on the back foot throughout the contest.
Central defender Abdoulaye Seck opened the scoring in the first half before second-half goals from Habib Diallo and substitute Cherif Ndiaye sealed a comfortable win.
Senegal sweep aside Benin to top group D at AFCON 2025
Pape Thiaw’s side started with authority, controlling possession and dictating the match from the outset. Their early pressure paid off midway through the first half when Seck rose highest from a set-piece situation to power home a header, giving Senegal a deserved lead.
Benin struggled to cope with Senegal’s physical presence and movement, particularly during dead-ball situations.
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The game took a dramatic turn shortly after the hour mark when former Chelsea defender Kalidou Koulibaly was shown a straight red card for a professional foul, denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.
It was a rare lapse from the experienced centre-back and the only blemish on an otherwise near-perfect evening for the former African champions.
Despite being reduced to ten men, Senegal remained in complete control. Benin failed to capitalise on their numerical advantage, lacking the cutting edge required to trouble Édouard Mendy in goal. Instead, it was Senegal who continued to look the more dangerous side on the counter.
Habib Diallo doubled the lead with a well-taken finish, effectively killing off any hopes of a Benin comeback. Substitute Cherif Ndiaye then added a third late on to cap an emphatic performance and underline Senegal’s squad depth as they cruised to victory.
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The result ensured Senegal finished top of Group D, ahead of DR Congo, while Benin progressed to the last 16 despite the defeat.
The West Africans will now face Egypt in a heavyweight knockout clash scheduled for next Monday, a fixture that promises fireworks given the pedigree of both nations.
Senegal, meanwhile, will take on Sudan in the round of 16. While confidence is high within the camp, the suspension of Koulibaly will be a concern for Coach Thiaw as he prepares for the knockout phase, with defensive reshuffling now inevitable.
With three goals scored, none conceded, and qualification sealed in style, Senegal sent a strong message to the rest of the tournament.
Even with a man sent off, they demonstrated composure, tactical discipline and ruthless efficiency qualities that could once again carry them deep into the AFCON 2025 knockout rounds.