Cameroon and Senegal, two of the biggest powers in African football, have been drawn in the same group for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
The draw, which took place in Abidjan, Ivory Coast on Thursday, also placed Guinea and Gambia in Group C, making it one of the most difficult groups in the tournament.
Cameroon are the five-time champions of Africa, and they will be eager to reclaim the title they last won in 2017. Senegal, on the other hand, are the defending champions, and they will be looking to defend their crown for the first time.
Both teams have star-studded squads, with players like Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, and Kalidou Koulibaly for Senegal, and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, Vincent Aboubakar, and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa for Cameroon.
It is sure to be a thrilling group stage match when Cameroon and Senegal meet on January 25, 2024, at the Stade Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan. The match will be a rematch of the 2022 AFCON final, which Senegal won on penalties after the game was drawn 0-0 after extra time.
The other two teams in Group C, Guinea and Gambia, are also no pushovers. Guinea have a number of talented players, including Naby Keita, Amadou Diawara, and Mohamed Bayo. Gambia are making their second appearance at the AFCON, and they will be looking to make an impact.
Group C is sure to be one of the most exciting groups to watch at the 2023 AFCON. With four strong teams competing for two places in the knockout stage, it is sure to be a closely fought battle.
Analysis
Cameroon and Senegal are the two favorites to progress from Group C, but Guinea and Gambia should not be underestimated. Guinea have a number of experienced players, and Gambia are a young and exciting team.
If Cameroon and Senegal finish first and second in the group, they will likely face easier opponents in the knockout stage. However, if Guinea or Gambia finish second, they could face a much tougher test.
The match between Cameroon and Senegal on January 25 will be the highlight of the group stage. Both teams have star-studded squads, and the match is sure to be a close and exciting contest.
Overall, Group C is one of the most difficult groups at the 2023 AFCON. With four strong teams competing for two places in the knockout stage, it is sure to be a closely fought battle.
