RABAT, Morocco (AP) — Senegal has a new star.
17-year-old French native Ibrahim Mbaye rejuvenated his side and gave Sadio Mane the impetus to score in Saturday's 1-1 Africa Cup of Nations draw with Congo.
Senegal dominated possession and created chances, with Nicholas Jackson and Mane again missing good opportunities as they did in the opening win over Botswana.
Cedric Bakambu took advantage of the rebound to open the scoring for Congo in the 61st after Edouard Mendy saved Theo Bongonda's opener.
Senegal coach Pape Thiaw responded by bringing on Mbaye and the 17-year-old made an immediate impact, but not before Bongonda was able to make it 2-0 at the break.
Mbaye ran towards the Congolese defenders, but goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi saved the shot and Mane equalized in the 69th.
Mbaye was left free when Congo defender Arthur Masuaku went off with an Achilles injury. Masuaku was unable to continue but Mbaye could have had more opportunities to shine against Benin in Senegal's final group game.
Earlier, Johan Roche's first-half goal was enough for Benin to beat Botswana 1-0 for their first win.
After two games, Senegal leads Group D with four points, ahead of Congo on goal difference, Benin is third with three points, followed by Botswana without a single point.
The top two automatically qualify for the final 16, along with the top third-place finishers.
Nigeria later played Tunisia after both teams won their opening games in Group C, with Uganda and Tanzania looking to claim their first win.
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AP at the African Cup: https://apnews.com/hub/africa-cup-of-nations
