Here are the betting odds on that fixture (via Yesplay):
Senegal to win - 1.31
Draw - 4.4
Gambia to win -12.0
Senegal
Until 2021, Senegal were AFCON's 'talented losers' who had lots of talent on their roster but never won the trophy. In 2021, the situation changed: they lifted the cup and, as the reigning champs, they are one of the frontrunners to do it again this time.
The team hasn't changed much since that triumph: Sadio Mane, Kalidou Koulibaly and Idrissa Gueye are still there, although none of them is playing at a top club these days.
Gambia
Unlike Senegal, Gambia have always been one of the weakest teams in Africa. The previous AFCON was their first and, surprisingly, they were a minor sensation having climbed as far as the quarter-finals.
Gambia are the underdogs again this time but considering their previous success, other teams will not underestimate them any more.
If we were to name key players in their squad, it would probably be ex-Atalanta and Bologna player Musa Barrow and young Yankuba Minteh who is currently plying his trade at Feyenoord and even has one goal in this season's Champions League.
Senegal vs Gambia: Facts to know
None of the AFCON teams has managed to win consecutive trophies since Egypt in 2006, 2008 and 2010.
Senegal's attacker Boulaye Dia (Salernitana) has the second-best xG rate in the Serie A starting from the 2022/23 season.
Senegal vs Gambia: Prediction
For the reigning champions, starting the campaign with a confident win will be important. Everything suggests they will tick that box against Gambia. Experienced and motivated Senegalese footballers should make easy work of the minnows.
Our prediction: Senegal to score over 1.5 goals (betting odds – 1.63)
