Wednesday May 3, 2023
Algiers (HOL) - In a thrilling display of tenacity and courage, the Somali U17 national team etched their names in history, earning their inaugural point at the U17 Africa Cup of Nations after a tense 1-1 standoff against Congo. Guided by the
steadfast leadership of coach Nuur Maxamed Amiin, the youthful Somali squad was eager to bounce back from their initial loss to Algeria, showcasing their resilience and prowess on the global stage.
The charged atmosphere at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers bore witness to both teams vying for their chance to advance in the prestigious tournament. Congo, boasting a more formidable roster, dictated the tempo of the game and relentlessly tested the Somali defensive line. However, their inability to capitalize on their opportunities in front of goal enabled the Somali side to exploit counter-attacking chances.
Emerging as Somalia's hero, Dini Dahir netted the team's maiden goal in the 31st minute, latching onto a brilliantly executed weighted through ball from Swedish-based midfielder Idriis Aden. Dahir's precise, low finish left Congo goalkeeper Chelcy Bonazebi reeling, infusing the Somali squad with renewed vigour. The breakthrough followed an intense period of Congo's dominance, as Ayel Wumba Niati found his efforts thwarted twice by heroic saves from Somali goalkeeper Abdikadir Mohamed.
Entering the second half with renewed determination, Congo levelled the score in the 57th minute, with Niati finally besting Mohamed after controlling a long ball inside the box and firing low. Despite Congo's commanding presence and numerous opportunities, the Somali defence stood tall, and Mohamed continued his string of crucial saves to keep Congo at bay.
Somalia's grit and resolve shone throughout the match as they held their ground against a more seasoned adversary. Late in the game, substitute Abdiasis Bahur nearly clinched an improbable victory for Somalia with a daring breakaway in the 89th minute, but Bonazebi thwarted his effort.
The enthralling contest between Somalia and Congo showcased the strategic adaptations and progress both teams have made since their tournament debuts. Somalia's first-ever performance against Algeria hinted at their potential to evolve into formidable competitors in future matches,
despite their opening loss. Conversely, Congo's seasoned side, with a third-place finish in 2011, relied on their mental strength and past triumphs to confront the unexpected challenge posed by the Somali debutants.
In another historic achievement, Senegal's U17 national team advanced to the quarter-finals for the first time. They secured their spot after a resounding 3-0 victory over host nation Algeria at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers.
Senegal's young footballers demonstrated exceptional prowess on the field, with Amara Diouf shining as the star of the match. Diouf netted two remarkable goals and played a crucial role in setting up another, helping to solidify Senegal's dominance throughout the game. The captain proudly attributed the win to his team's united efforts and unwavering determination.
With this impressive win, Senegal rises to the summit of Group A, boasting six points and securing their place in the competition's quarter-finals as the first team to do so. Their upcoming opponents, the resilient Somali side, still harbour dreams of reaching the quarter-finals themselves.
Tuesday's momentous draw for Somalia sets the stage for their ultimate group-stage match against the already-qualified Senegal. A victory in their final game would propel the Somali U17 team into the last eight, marking yet another extraordinary accomplishment. As both teams prepare to face off, Senegal aims to build momentum and make a deeper run in this prestigious tournament, while Somalia looks to defy the odds.