Senegal kick-started their AFCON Group C campaign with a resounding victory, defeating Gambia 3-0. Lamine Camara played a pivotal role in securing the win, netting two goals for the defending champions.

Defending champions Senegal got their Africa Cup of Nations campaign off to a flying start with a dominant 3-0 victory over ten-man Gambia.

The match began with an early goal from Senegal’s Pape Gueye, who was set up by Sadio Mane and fired a powerful shot into the bottom corner. Gambia had some good chances in the first half, with Musa Barrow curling a free-kick just wide and Ali Sowe heading over from a corner. However, their hopes of a comeback were dashed when Ebou Adams was shown a red card just before half-time for a dangerous challenge.

Senegal took full advantage of their numerical superiority in the second half, with Ismaïla Sarr providing a perfectly timed through ball for Lamine Camara to score their second goal. Camara then sealed his man of the match performance with a stunning first-time shot from outside the box in the closing minutes of the game.

One of the talking points of the match was Camara’s early goal, which is already being considered a contender for goal of the tournament. The 20-year-old Metz player showed great skill as he twisted his way into the box before unleashing a rocket of a shot into the top corner.

Camara’s performance was truly outstanding, showcasing his ability to make box-to-box runs and his clinical finishing. He took his first goal brilliantly and his second goal was an absolute beauty.

In terms of player ratings, Senegal’s Camara and Gueye both received high scores of 8, while Sarr and Mane were given 7. On the other hand, Gambia’s O. Colley was their highest-rated player with a score of 7.

The match highlights included Gueye’s early goal in the 4th minute, Camara’s goal in the 52nd minute, and his spectacular goal in the 86th minute.

Overall, Senegal’s victory was a strong statement of intent as they look to defend their Africa Cup of Nations title. With players like Camara in their ranks, they will certainly be a team to watch in the tournament.