"Heartbreaking!": Social Media Reaction to Senegal vs Zimbabwe at AFCON 2021

• Senegal had to huff and puff in the hot sun of Bafoussam sun to see off a determined but overmatched Zimbabwe
• The Lions of Teranga can thank Liverpool striker Sadio Mane's last second penalty for the 1-0 win after a VAR-confirmed handball by Kelvin Madzonge
• Mane was announced as man-of-the-match, but Zimbabwe goalkeeper Kelvin Madzonge will feel aggrieved after a fine and defiant performance between the sticks

Favourites Senegal had to toil for their 1-0 win against Zimbabwe in the opening match of group B at the 2021 African Cup of Nations.

Sadio Mane lashed in a penalty with the last kick of the game that took place at the Kouekong Stadium in Bafoussam. The Warriors' Kelvin Madzongue handled the ball while diving in to block a shot with just seconds of added to go, leaving referee Mario Escobar with no choice but to point to the spot after a VAR consultation.

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Social media had its say on the tougher-than-expected win for Senegal.

@phira1806 said:

"Pure African football on display both countries coached by their former players."

@sekgalamg said:

"It was sad for them to lose the game like that at the end. But I am proud of them."

@Mokhabukidental1 said:

"Heartbreak for Zimbabwe as Senegal snatched a late win #AFCON2022"

@JoelMutatavikwa said:

"Yesterday, it was South Africa vs Ghana penalty. Today it's Senegal vs Zimbabwe penalty. Tomorrow it's Guinea vs Malawi penalty. What's wrong with Southern Africa really? @CAF_Online @online_zifa @COSAFAMEDIA"

@JabuKaKhanyile said:

I fell asleep watching Zimbabwe vs Senegal absolutely boring commentary.

@kingviiera said:

@SuperSportTV

"Zimbabwe is starting to gain confidence... Senegal should wake up. Otherwise, they will get a shock of their lives that can end their whole entire Afcon dream. #ssafcon @SuperSportTV"

Cape Verde sinks 10-Man Ethiopia to kickstart campaign in Cameroon

Meanwhile, Sports Brief also reports that Cape Verde kicked off its 2021 AFCON campaign in Cameroon on a positive note after seeing off 10-man Ethiopia 1-0 in their Group A opener.

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Julio Tavares fired Cape Verde into the lead just minutes before the break.

Cape Verde's slim win has them sitting second in Group A behind hosts Cameroon, separated by goal difference.