The African Cup Of Nations Semifinals takes place this Sunday with Senegal facing Tunisia while Algeria meets Nigeria in the second match. As the four teams bate it out for two spots in Friday’s final, we take a look at the most important players from all 4 teams..
Sadio Mane-Senegal
The Liverpool forward has been in fine form this year and won the English Premier League golden boot with 22 goals last season. The Senegalese has so far scored 3 goals in the tournament which is the joint highest.
Mane combines electric pace with superb dribbling which is a nightmare for any defender. With Mbaye Niang employed as the center forward by Aliou Cisse, Mane is deployed in the #10 role, a role he has so far excelled in.
With a Champions League medal in the bag already this year, Mane is eager to round off an amazing season by guiding his country to its first continental triumph.
Riyad Mahrez-Algeria
The English Premier League winner has been a revelation for Algeria this year. Capable of deciding a game on his own, Mahrez has already shown that ability and has scored twice in the tournament.
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Algeria has been the best team in the tournament so far and is yet to lose a match. They would not have made it this far without theWorld Class winger in their ranks.
Wadri Khaziri-Tunisia
The Saint Etienne striker is Tunisia’s main man and one they always look for when they need goals. Physically strong and with a brilliant right for the shot, he will cause problems for the Senegalese defense no doubt.
The former Sunderland man has also improved on his hold up play which sets up nicely for the battle with Senegal’s Kalidou Koulibaly.
Odion Ighalo-Nigeria
With 3 goals already, the Super Eagles striker is currently leading in the golden boot race. His link up with Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi has been one of Nigeria’s strengths this year and could as well win the 4th African title.
Against an Algerian side that has only conceded once, the Nigerian attack will have to make use of every chance they get and Ighalo is the best bet to convert them into goals.