CHAN 2025 QUALIFIERS | LOCAL LIONS HELD IN FAILURE BY LIBERIA (1-1)

For his first on the bench of the local Lions, Souleymane Diallo did not have the expected result. The local Senegal National Team was held by Liberia (1-1) in the first leg of the second and final round of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers. A meeting that leaves a taste of unfinished business for the reigning African champions.

Despite a first half marked by a lack of offensive inspiration, the Lions managed to raise their level in the second half. In the 78th minute, a well-executed free kick by Layousse Samb found Seydina Mandione Mbaye, who opened the scoring with a header.

This advantage was short-lived. In the 84th minute, a marking error allowed Bility, well positioned at the far post, to equalize for Liberia with an unstoppable volley. The Senegalese then held on to avoid a second goal, but were unable to regain the advantage.

With this draw, the local Lions will have to win or obtain a scoreless draw next Saturday at the Abdoulaye-Wade Stadium in Diamniadio to qualify. The away goal remains an important advantage under CAF rules, but elimination would be a blow for a team that carries the status of African champions.

This meeting was the first official test for Souleymane Diallo, successor to Pape Bouna Thiaw. Although the result was not catastrophic, it highlights the need for the team to better exploit their opportunities and strengthen their defensive solidity. The meeting at Diamniadio will be crucial in proving that the local Lions remain a dominant force on the continent.