Senegal once again underlined their elite status at the Africa Cup of Nations, delivering a commanding victory over Benin — and doing so despite spending a significant part of the match with ten men.

The gap in class between the two sides was evident from the outset. The Teranga Lions dominated proceedings with authority and composure, controlling possession and tempo. Even a red card failed to disrupt their rhythm, with Senegal continuing to press forward and impose their game.

Remarkably, the third goal arrived after the dismissal, a moment that perfectly summed up the confidence and attacking quality within the Senegal squad. Reduced in numbers but not in ambition, they punished a helpless Benin defence to seal an emphatic win.

Despite the heavy defeat, there was no need for despair on the Benin side. Finishing third in their group proved sufficient to secure a place in the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations, keeping their tournament alive.

2025 Africa Cup of Nations

Benin - Senegal 0:3 (0:1)
Goals: Seck A., 38 (0:1); Diallo H., 62 (0:2); Ndiaye, 90 (penalty) (0:3)

Benin: Dandjinou; Ouorou (Moumini, 85); Roche Y.; Verdon; Tijani M.; Attidjikou; Imourane; Dodo Doku (Aloko R., 46); Olaitan Junior (Amoussou, 85); Tosin (Ahoudo, 85); Mounie S.
Substitution: Aloko R. (from 46); Moumini (from 85); Ahoudo (from 85); Amoussou (from 85)
Bench: Allagbé; Obassa; Ahlinvi; Kiki D.; Azongnitode; Ahouangbo; Fassinou; Kossi R.; Dossou; Rachidou; Tessilimi
Yellow Cards: Dodo Doku 20; Tosin 24; Mounie S. 82; Moumini 90

Senegal: Mendy Ed.; Koulibaly K. (till 71); Seck A.; Gueye I.; Camara L. (Diarra H., 46); Mane Sa. (Ndiaye, 88); Sarr P. (Ciss P., 81); Diouf Mal.; Ndiaye Il. (Mbaye, 46); Diatta; Diallo H. (Sarr, 76)
Substitution: Diarra H. (from 46); Mbaye (from 46); Sarr (from 76); Ciss P. (from 81); Ndiaye (from 88)
Bench: Diouf Y.; Diaw M.; Jakobs I.; Mendy An.; Gueye P.A.; Camara M.; Sarr Is.; Sabaly C.; Jackson N.; Dia B.
Yellow Cards: Camara L. 32
Red cards: Koulibaly K. 71'