The final of the Africa Cup of Nations sees two nations who are out to re-write the history books go head to head in what promises to be a feisty game.
Senegal has never won Africa’s biggest title and are only in their first title decider since 2002 and their second final ever.
Algeria are equally as hungry for the trophy. Le Fennecs have not been to an AFCON final since 1990 when they hosted and won it for the only time ever. 29 years without a title for a country of Algeria’s footballing status is too long.
The Teranga Lions are the slight favourites and very much so. Coach Aliou Cisse’s men have been almost perfect in this tournament winning all but one of their games.
Napoli’s defender and key-man Kalidou Koulibaly will miss the game to suspension but Senegal has a solid defense that should be able to cope with his loss.
The West Africans have kept a clean sheet in five out of six games and it won’t be out of order to shut out the Algeria forward line.
While Senegal may miss the services of one of Europe’s most sought after defender, they have available in their ranks one of the world’s finest players in Sadio Mane.
AFCON 2019 Best Player Award: Ighalo, Mane, Mahrez and the Top 5 Candidates via @soccernet_ng https://t.co/unmYVhR2qF #SENALG #ALGSEN
— Imhons Erons (@Imhons) July 19, 2019
The Liverpool forward painted the English Premier League red with 26 goals last season and has already banged in three goals in Egypt. He will be pumped up to add to that tally against Algeria as he aims for the top goalscorer award.
The Desert Foxes have been the most attractive side to watch in Egypt. They have scored loads of goals and in Manchester City’s Riyad Mahrez, Le Fennecs have their own potent weapon to wreck havoc on any opponent.
The most expensive African player ever has three goals to his name at this championship, the best of which was that stunning free-kick to win their semifinal clash with Nigeria in the 94th minute.
My Tip?
When these two powerhouses met in the group stage, it was Algeria that edged that tie thanks to a Youcef Belaili strike in the second half. But this is the final and it could be anybody’s game.
However, it’s quite likely going to be another low scoring affair with all indications pointing towards another game seeing under 2,5 goals.
Note: Bet responsibly, please.
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