Big Game Focus: Senegal v Algeria

Senegal and Algeria will meet in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations clash tonight as they both seek to leap towards the top spot in Group C. Bet on this match here.

Senegal won their first match against Tanzania to make it seven consecutive wins and the Lions of Teranga will want to extend that against Algeria. Sadio Mane is expected to start after serving suspension and the Premier League Golden Boot winner will want to make a mark.

Algeria equally got their Africa Cup of Nations campaign off to a good start with a 2-0 win over Kenya. Admittedly they are a level below their opponents in terms of quality, but they have enough in their ranks to cause an upset.

Betting preview

Senegal have won their last seven matches, conceding just one goal. They have not lost to African opposition since defeat to Cameroon on penalties at the 2017 AFCON. The return of Mané to the squad will undoubtedly be a plus for them, making odds of 2.05 for a Senegal win look attractive.

Both sides have some pretty impressive forwards and we should see both teams put their best foot forward in attack. The last meeting between these two teams ended in a draw 2-2 and another high scoring affair is on the cards. You can back Over 2.5 Goals at odds of 2.65.

The Lions have found the net at least once or more in eight of their last ten games in all competitions. Djamel Belmadi’s men have scored five goals in their last two outings and at least one goal in nine of their last ten and there is value in backing Both Teams to Score here at odds of 2.20.

Team news

Following their win over Tanzania, Senegal are unlikely to make any major changes ahead of this clash safe for Mane, who should get the nod to start.

Islam Slimani was left out by Belmadi at the weekend. He’s likely to miss out once again after another disappointing season.

Possible lineups

Senegal: Mendy, Koulibaly, Sane, Sabaly, Wague, N’Diaye, Gueye, Niang, Keita, Mané, Sarr

Algeria: M’Bolhi, Mandi, Benlamri, Bensebaini, Atal, Bennacer, Guedioura, Belaili, Feghouli, Bounedjah, Mahrez