Senegal secured an important victory this Monday against Burundi (1-0) during the CAN qualifiers. After being held to a draw by Burkina Faso during their first meeting, the Lions of Teranga were able to react.
A controversial penalty
However, despite their clear dominance, it was not until the 71st minute when Egyptian referee Mohamed Maarouf Eid awarded a penalty for a high foot by a Burundian defender on Sadio Mane.
This decision quickly caused controversy: the defender appeared to touch the ball, and the action appeared to take place on the edge, or even outside the area. Despite the protests, Ismaïla Sarr took responsibility and scored the only goal of the match. This victory allows Senegal, the 2021 African champion, to get its qualifying campaign for the next Africa Cup of Nations off to a good start. Senegal takes first place in Group L while waiting for the match Burkina Faso-Malawi which will take place on Tuesday.
The highly criticized coach
However, this victory does not dispel the criticism of Aliou Cissé. After a disappointing draw against Burkina Faso (1-1) and an unconvincing performance against Burundi, more and more voices are being raised to question the coach’s tactical choices. The lack of offensive creativity is often pointed out, and the Lions of Teranga will have to react quickly to meet the high expectations of their supporters.
