Qatar 1- 3 Senegal: Qatar are all but eliminated.
Edouard Mendy’s man of the match performance ensured Senegal took all three points.
Deemed a must win game for both teams, Senegal came out top to stun Qatar 3-1. It was a winner cements claims at the second spot contest held at the Al Thumima stadium in Doha, on Friday.
Glimpses of attacking football from the hosts showed a different side from the group that played Ecuador. Senegal were quick to settle into the game and contain the press from Qatar.
During the first half, it was an evenly contested game with minimal chances. Passes in the final third were wanting.
Senegal break the deadlock
Qatar’s high press did not last, they eventually made a defensive error leading to goal.
Boulaye Dia capitalized on shambolic defending by Khouki, scoring a right footed shot to break the deadlock in the 41st minute. Aliou Cisse was busy at the touchline giving orders to his team.
Three minutes into the second half, Senegal were in full control of the game. Famara Diedhou volleyed a powerful header past Meshaal Barsham to double Senegal’s lead. The Senegalese fans exploded in joy and dance in the stadium.
Qatar on the scoresheet, finally
Qatar’s first ever goal in the tournament was a wonderfully worked goal. Ismaeel Mohammad cross found Mohamed Muntari on the right and his accurate cross was headed down and firmly to the right of Mendy who could do nothing but watch.
Senegal grabbed the third goal after a smart interplay on the right leading to a good low cross from Iliman Ndiaye. Bamba Dieng was the recepient of the cross, he turned the ball firmly past Barsham.
Senegal’s two goal lead was restored and the third goal sealed the win for the reigning African champions.
First win for Africa
Senegal recorded Africa’s first win at World Cup. The win gives the Lions of Teranga hopes to qualify second in Group A.
They will be counting on Netherlands to win against Ecuador later today.
Qatar have slim chances of qualifying. The hosts will be crushing out of the tournament unless Ecuador beat the Netherlands.
