One Step Closer for Senegal
It’s time for the quarter finals of AFCON 2019 and on Wednesday it’s first up with Senegal meeting Benin.
Don't Count them Out
Senegal are among the top favourites to lift the trophy now the hosts Egypt are out, but they’ll have to put in a shift if they’re to get past Benin.
Benin haven’t lost a match in the tournament yet. The fact that they won against a talented Morocco side shows that Benin should be taken seriously.
Senegal
The Lions of Teranga didn’t go through the group stage completely unencumbered, only managing a draw to Algeria. It shows the Senegalese aren’t the most difficult side to overcome.
A strength in depth to their squad few else in Africa can count on
They took second place in their group, matching up against a rigid Uganda side, eventually overcoming their opponents 1-0 in a tough and tight match up.
Everyone assumed their quarter final opponents would be Morocco but here we are looking at a surprisingly astute Benin side instead.
A dream situation would be for Senegal to make it through to the semi finals plain sailing. It’s looking like with a strength in depth to their squad few else in Africa can count on.
Two star names that stick out are Liverpool’s Sadio Mané and Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly but it’ll take a team effort to get past Benin.
Benin
The Squirrels slipped into the knockout stages undefeated, showing a similar tactical approach in all three matches, eventually clinging on to a third place qualifying spot.
They play the role of underdogs extremely well
In the round of 16 they came up against one of the continent’s favourites in Morocco and all looked hopeless. But, despite being outplayed for most of the match, they managed to take the lead at the start of the first half.
Morocco eventually equalised and with no goals in extra time it went to pens - a perfect situation for Benin to level the playing the field. It paid off with Benin with going through.
They play the role of underdogs extremely well. Constant underestimation seems to suit them well.
Although they’re missing out on centre back Adenon, they’re still undefeated so far in this tournament and they’ll relish another chance to knock out one of the big boys.
Senegal - Benin betting tip
Benin represent dream opposition for Senegal at the quarter final stage. There’s still a job to be done but it’s hard to see such an experienced and talented Senegal side trip up with a golden opportunity for a semi final lying in wake.
I think Senegal will jump at the chance and get this one finished with minimal issues. Although it’ll be a clear win for Senegal, Benin are a tough outfit to break down so there won’t be a mass of goals.
I’m betting Senegal win and under 4.5 goals in the match at 4/5 (1.80) with bet365.
