Senegal vs Ivory Coast Predictions for this African Cup of Nations last-16 affair. Senegal, defending champions, face Ivory Coast in a high-profile Africa Cup of Nations round of 16 match at Charles Konan Banny Stadium on Monday. Read on for our free match preview and betting tips.
Africa Cup of Nations | Last 16 Round: – Jan 29, 2024 at 8pm UK at Stade de Yamoussoukro
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Senegal vs Ivory Coast Predictions
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Senegal vs Ivory Coast: A Tactical Battle for AFCON Quarter-Final Berth
Key Stats
– Ivory Coast’s Decline: Back-to-back defeats in their recent AFCON games.
– Sadio Mane’s Threat: Key in Senegal’s attack, contributing to their average of 2.7 goals per game.
The Africa Cup of Nations brings yet another thrilling encounter as Senegal, the defending champions, take on the Ivory Coast in the round of 16 at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium. With both teams being powerhouses in African football, this clash promises to be a defining moment in the tournament.
Team Analysis
Senegal’s Dominance: Senegal, known as The Lions of Teranga, has shown impeccable form in the tournament, winning all three group stage matches. Their blend of solid defence and lethal attacking prowess, led by stars like Sadio Mane, Ismaila Sarr, and Habib Diallo, has positioned them as favourites. Their defensive record, conceding just one goal in three games, speaks volumes of their tactical discipline under coach Aliou Cisse.
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Ivory Coast’s Rocky Journey: Contrasting Senegal’s form, the Ivory Coast’s journey in AFCON 2023 has been tumultuous. Starting with a win, their campaign faltered with successive losses. The sacking of Jean-Louis Gasset and the appointment of interim coach Emerse Fae could either unsettle the team or provide a much-needed spark. However, the team’s reliance on individual talents like Franck Kessie and Jean-Philippe Krasso could be crucial.
Tactical Breakdown
Senegal’s Strategy: Senegal is expected to dominate possession and utilise the width of the pitch. The key for Senegal will be to exploit Ivory Coast’s recent defensive vulnerabilities through quick counter-attacks and the pace of Mane and Sarr.
Ivory Coast’s Approach: For Ivory Coast, a more conservative approach might be the order of the day. They would aim to stay compact and hit on the break, using the physicality and pace of their attackers. The focus would be on shoring up their defence to withstand Senegal’s attacking threats.
Key Player Battles
- Sadio Mane vs. Serge Aurier: Mane’s flair and Aurier’s experience will be a fascinating duel on the wing.
- Franck Kessie vs. Pape Gueye: A midfield battle that could dictate the flow of the game.
Managerial Matchup
Aliou Cisse’s Expertise vs. Emerse Fae’s Challenge: Cisse’s experience and successful track record in AFCON give Senegal an edge. Fae, though less experienced, must bring innovative tactics to outwit Senegal’s solid setup.
Expected Lineups and Commentary
Senegal:
- Mendy; Diatta, Koulibaly, A Diallo, Jakobs; P.M Sarr, Gueye, Camara; I Sarr, H Diallo, Mane
- Commentary: This lineup showcases Senegal’s attacking intent, with Mane and Sarr providing pace and creativity on the wings.
Ivory Coast:
- Y Fofana; Aurier, Diomande, Ndicka, Konan; S Fofana, Sangare, Kessie; Kouame, Krasso, Boga
- Commentary: Ivory Coast’s lineup indicates a mix of defensive solidity and attacking potential, with Kessie playing a pivotal role in midfield.
Predictions and Rationales
- Handicap Market – Senegal -1 to Win: Reflecting on Senegal’s commanding performances and considering Ivory Coast’s defensive lapses, Senegal winning with at least a one-goal margin seems a strong possibility. Senegal’s defence, among the best in the tournament, coupled with their dynamic attacking unit led by Sadio Mane, positions them to not just win, but to do so with a decisive scoreline. This prediction takes into account both Senegal’s ability to score multiple goals and their knack for maintaining a solid defensive line, which should see them clear this handicap comfortably against an Ivory Coast side struggling to find form.
- Correct Score Prediction – Senegal 2, Ivory Coast 0: Senegal’s defensive strength, combined with Ivory Coast’s recent scoring woes, points to a clean sheet for Senegal. A scoreline of 2-0 in favour of Senegal reflects their offensive capability and defensive solidity.
- Goalscorer Prediction – Sadio Mane to Score: Mane’s form and his ability to find spaces in tight defences make him a prime candidate to score in this encounter. His speed and finishing skills will be crucial for Senegal’s attacking plays.
- First Half Result – Senegal Leading: Senegal is likely to start strong and take control early in the game. Their ability to score early and maintain pressure could see them leading at halftime.
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