June 21, (THEWILL) – Senegal, the reigning football champions of Africa, stunned Brazil with a remarkable 4-2 victory in an international friendly on Tuesday night.
The Teranga Lions were inspired by a brace from their talisman, Sadio Mane, who scored twice in the second half to seal the win. Mane also had a hand in the other two goals, setting up Habib Diallo for the equaliser in the first half and then winning a penalty in stoppage time, which he converted himself.
Brazil had taken the early lead in the 11th minute through Lucas Paqueta, but Senegal responded well and were level by half-time thanks to Diallo’s goal. The visitors then took control in the second half, scoring three goals in the space of 14 minutes to seal the win.
The result was a major upset, as Brazil are one of the most successful teams in international football, having won the World Cup five times. However, Senegal showed that they are a force to be reckoned with, and they will be hoping to build on this performance in the upcoming TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire, where they will arrive as defending champions.
THEWILL recalls that Senegal has won all of the major male football competitions in Africa, including the senior AFCON, the African Beach Soccer competition, the African Nations Championship (CHAN), and the Under-17 and Under-20 competitions in Africa. Senegal’s success in these competitions and this statement win against Brazil, are a testament to the strength of their football development programmes.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
