Senegal will lock horns with Algeria in their second 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) Group C match at the 30 June Stadium in Egypt on Thursday.
Kick-off is at 7pm CAT (SA, GMT+2).
The Lions of Teranga got off to a winning start in the continental tournament as they secured a 2-0 victory over Tanzania in Cairo on Sunday.
Two goals from Keita Balde Diao and Krepin Diatta helped Senegal secure the victory and they are placed second on the group standings.
Senegal head coach Aliou Cisse says the victory against the Taifa Stars has given them hope as they look to go all the way and clinch their maiden Afcon title.
“We came into this tournament environment and kicked off well. It gives us hope and the ability to keep improving,” Cisse said.
“Four or five years, I have been trying to come up with a capable team. I am sure of their quality.”
The Lions of Teranga will look to Liverpool FC forward Sadio Mane, who will make his first appearance in the tournament after missing the clash against Tanzania due to suspension.
Meanwhile, Algeria also began their Group C campaign with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Kenya in another match which was played in Cairo on Sunday.
Goals from Baghdad Bounedjah and Riyad Mahrez inspired the Desert Lions to victory which took them to the top of the group standings.
Algeria head coach Djamel Belmadi is wary of Senegal’s dangerman Mane, but he has made it known that the 1990 Afcon champions will be ready for the encounter.
“Against Senegal we will be facing the tournament favourite with the addition of Sadio Mané,” Belmadi said.
“It’s a very competitive team but we will be ready for this match.”
The Desert Foxes’ key player is Manchester City winger Mahrez, who will be looking to score again and help his side overcome Senegal.
In head-to-head stats, Senegal and Algeria have met on 19 occasions.
The Desert Foxes have recorded 10 victories compared to the Lions of Teranga’s four wins, while five matches ended in a draw.
Courtesy: SuperSports
