Reigning African champions Senegal have started their Africa Cup Nations campaign with an emphatic victory against Gambia.

Pape Gueye gave the Teranga Lions the ideal start, collecting Sadio Mane’s pass to fire in a fourth-minute opener from inside the penalty area.

The Scorpions kept pushing to level the score but Africa’s giants defence kept the attackers at bay. 

Things turned ugly for Gambia after midfielder Ebou Adams was dismissed for off-the ball challenge just before half-time. He was red carded for violent conduct. 

Upon turning form the halftime break, wonderkid Lamine Camara doubled Senegal’s lead with a low finish. The 19-year-old made it third for the Teranga Lions with a sublime curl, a goal of tournament contender. 

Despite being a man down wand chasing three goals, the Scorpions put on a spirited display. 

The Scorpions will need to regroup for their next  match against Guinea on Friday.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba