Senegal won their second match in Group D, after beating Ghana, by defeating Algeria 2–1. All three goals were scored in an entertaining first half. The result sent Senegal to the top of the group, while Algeria finished second on four points, with both teams securing qualification for the quarter-finals. The match also highlighted the exciting young talent emerging from both sides, with several players delivering impressive performances.
Senegal, coached by Issa Aïdara and set up in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation, looked to utilise their goalkeeper’s playmaking ability to find the wingers in behind with well-weighted long passes. During the build-up phase, central midfielder Maurice Biaye frequently dropped between the two centre-backs to create space and support progression (see image below).
They pressed with a front two, led by striker Cheikh Sy and attacking midfielder Souleymane Faye, during opposition goal-kicks, often forcing the goalkeeper into playing long passes. In open play, Faye initially marked opposition defensive midfielder Nazim Benghezel before stepping out to press the centre-back (see image below).
They were dangerous from set pieces, with a noticeably higher average height than their opponents, and showed confidence and bravery in aerial duels. Their first goal came from a central free-kick, while the second was scored from a penalty following a VAR review for handball.
Algeria, coached by Amine Ghimouz in a 1-4-3-3 formation, scored from a corner after a fortunate deflection off an opponent. Mekkaoui reacted quickly, taking the ball out of his feet before finishing low into the far corner with his second touch in the 5th minute.
On offensive goal-kicks, they often played direct towards their left winger. During the match, they also adjusted their structure by dropping a defensive midfielder closer to the goalkeeper in order to build short from goal-kicks (see image below).
Both on defensive goal-kicks and in open play, they pressed with their midfielders (8s) stepping up against the opposition centre-backs, while their striker screened the centre (see the two images below).
Here the players who stood out:
Cheikh Dieng (Senegal / Diambars FC U17), left centre-back born 2009.
A tall defender with outstanding heading ability, he scored Senegal’s opening goal with a powerful backward-moving header, generating both precision and force in the finish. Strong in both ground and aerial duels, he stands out as a dominant presence in defensive battles. To further develop his game, he could improve his defensive positioning and contribute more consistently to build-up play and distribution from the back.
Cheikh Sy (Senegal), striker born 2011.
A target player with a strong physical frame, he excels at shielding the ball effectively before laying it off to teammates, acting as a reliable focal point in attack. His ability to use his body to protect possession allows his team to progress and settle in advanced areas. To elevate his impact further, he should refine his off-the-ball movement and improve the timing of his aerial duels.
Mouhamed Wagne (Senegal / Diambars FC U17), left winger born 2009.
A fast inverted winger, he is particularly dangerous in attacking 1v1 situations. He regularly receives the ball between the lines, where he can turn explosively and with disguise before driving inside the pitch to shoot. He also delivers well-weighted passes and crosses. He came close to scoring at the end of the first half after a promising opportunity, but his finish went over the crossbar.
Ayoub Dahmas (Algeria / USM Alger U21), right-back born 2009.
A fast full-back, he is strong in 1v1 situations both defensively and offensively. Faced with a quick winger, he consistently showed him outside before closing him down effectively. In possession, he played forward with precise, flat passes into the striker, helping his team progress. He is also well positioned to intercept long balls, crosses, and forward passes. To further improve his impact, he should work on his crossing in the final third.
Walid Nechab (Algeria / Olympique Lyon U19), offensive midfielder born 2009.
A dynamic midfielder with excellent awareness and vision, he stands out for his close control in tight spaces and strong dribbling ability. He consistently finds teammates with precise through balls and shows a wide passing range, including accurate switches of play over long distances. Defensively, he is precise and effective in his tackles, often regaining possession in his own half.
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