Senegal look to complete Rwanda double

Senegal will lock horns with Rwanda in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualification Group L match at Stade Huye in Butare on Saturday.

Kick-off is 9:00 pm CAT.

CURRENT FORM

The Lions of Teranga dropped points for the first time in Group L when they drew 1-1 with Benin away on June 17 as their four-match winning run came to an end.

Having already qualified for the 2023 Afcon finals, Senegal are placed at the top of the group standings - six points clear of second-placed Mozambique who will host Benin on 9 September.

Meanwhile, Rwanda suffered a 2-0 defeat to Mozambique at home on 18 June and it was the East African side's second consecutive defeat, and they remain winless in Group L.

The Wasps are placed fourth in the group standings with their ambitions of qualifying for the Afcon finals having already ended after failing to win their matches and they now face Senegal's B team.

WHAT WAS SAID?

Senegal B team head coach Malick Daf

“This match is a source of motivation for the young players who are knocking on the door of the A team," Daf said.

"It's a unique chance for them to replace the A's. All the players are super motivated and everything is going very well.

"We will have to make the right match. A message for the Senegalese people? May he support this team which is the future of Senegalese football. Together we will win."

Rwandan central midfielder Simeon Iradukunda

"For my second Amavubi call-up, after not making the cut the first time, my expectations are filled with determination," Iradukunda told Rwanda's New Times.

"I'm eager to prove my worth and contribute to the team's success against Senegal.

"It's a chance to showcase my growth, dedication, and commitment to earning my place in the squad."

HEAD-TO-HEAD

Senegal and Rwanda have met twice across all competitions.

The Lions of Teranga boast of an unbeaten record against the Wasps having won their two meetings.

Their last meeting ended in a 1-0 away victory in favour of Senegal in June 2022 in a 2023 Afcon qualifier.

Kind regards,