Aston Villa duo Ibrahim Mbaye and Nicolas Jackson combined for the decisive goal as Senegal beat Ethiopia 1-0 in Tuesday’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
Jackson supplied the pass for Mbaye’s 11th-minute strike, giving Unai Emery an encouraging example of his summer signings working together.
Le Soleil’s report, published by SenePlus, details how Jackson released his club teammate to put Senegal ahead.
The visitors protected that advantage to secure their first victory of the qualifying campaign following a draw with Mozambique.
Aston Villa duo Mbaye and Jackson make the difference
Mbaye’s goal settled a difficult afternoon for Senegal, who came under increasing pressure after the break.
The report describes Ethiopia pushing the visitors back, while Jackson missed a late opportunity to make the result more comfortable.
For Villa, the interest lies in the combination behind the winner.
Mbaye joined from Paris Saint-Germain in September, linking up with a player he already knew through international football.
Their understanding gives Emery something to develop as he brings his attacking options together.
Jackson provided the service on this occasion, with Mbaye supplying the finish. That interchange offers a useful reminder that the striker can help create chances as well as complete them.
One international goal does not settle Villa’s selection decisions. However, a decisive contribution from both players is a positive development ahead of their return to club football.
