CHAN: Senegal stay top in Group D despite Congo stalemate

The Republic of Congo held reigning champions Senegal to a one-all draw to begin Tuesday’s action from Group D at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Zanzibar. Congo Brazzaville have been without domestic football since March 2025 and gave Senegal a tough game but conceded late to share the points.

It was a very unexpected first 20 minutes for Senegal, who were on the wrong foot in the tie. Congo were the much better side in the opening exchanges. However, goalscoring opportunities were very rare. Congo took the lead in the 19th minute when a cross from Charles Atipo was turned in by Dechan Moussavou. The 19-year-old winger lurked behind and caught the napping Senegalese defense to break the deadlock.

The local Teranga Lions did manage to see much of the possession after going down but failed to create clear-cut chances. Moctar Koïta and Mbaye Ly did try to test the Congo defense but their efforts were futile.

Following the resumption, Libasse Guèye almost restored parity with a brilliant solo run, but his effort was denied by Congo keeper Ulrich Samba. Senegal got their equalizer eight minutes before time through defender Layousse Samb, who slotted home from close range following a cutback from Ousseynou Fall Seck.

Senegal remain top of the group with four points. Congo are second with two points after another draw in their CHAN encounter. Nigeria clashes with Sudan in the second game from Group D on Tuesday with both teams looking for their first victories in the competition.

Senegal finish the group stage against Sudan next Tuesday while Congo faces Nigeria in the later game on the same day.

Group D Table

1. Senegal- 4 points (2 games played)
2. Congo- 2 points (2 games)
3. Sudan- 1 point (1 game)
4. Nigeria- 0 points (1 game)