Senegal takes lead against Belgium in World Cup last 32 match
Senegal takes early lead in Seattle
In a World Cup last 32 fixture, Senegal has taken a deserved lead against Belgium in Seattle. The opening minutes of the match saw Senegal display a purposeful and slick performance, highlighted by Habib Diarra’s goal. This goal marks the eighth by a Sunderland player in this World Cup, a tally surpassed only by players from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
Diarra’s goal came after Sadio Mane initiated an attack from the left. Mane’s cross found Ismaila Sarr, whose flicked header struck the far post. Habib Diarra was quick to react to the rebound, securing a simple finish.
Senegal continued their attacking pressure into the second half, creating a half-chance within the first 30 seconds. Mane’s cross narrowly missed Sarr before reaching Iliman Ndiaye, who shot wide from 15 yards. Earlier in the match, Ndiaye received a pass from Diarra and delivered a cross that found no one in the box.
Belgium’s attempts and defensive challenges
Belgium, in contrast, appeared to lack their usual swagger. Despite a decent spell of possession, their efforts to create clear chances were often thwarted. De Cuyper attempted a curler from 25 yards that was saved by Diaw, the Senegal goalkeeper. De Cuyper also found space on the left side of the area, but his cutback was intercepted by a Senegal defender.
Belgium’s wide forwards, Doku and Trossard, are considered important to their team’s strategy. Trossard had a shot from the edge of the area that was comfortably held by Diaw. Moments before, De Ketelaere hesitated and was challenged effectively.
The Belgian side maintained the same starting lineup from their previous game, a 5-1 victory over New Zealand. They had finished first in Group G, having drawn against Egypt and Iran.
Senegal’s team changes and tournament journey
Senegal made three changes to their starting lineup for this crucial knockout match. Kalidou Koulibaly, the team captain, was not included due to an injury. Pape Gueye started in place of Lamine Camara, and Pathe Ciss replaced defender Abdoulaye Seck. The forward line featured Iliman Ndiaye alongside Ismaila Sarr and Sadio Mane, with Ibrahim Mbaye on the bench.
Senegal advanced to the knockout stage as one of the eight best third-place teams. Coach Pape Bouna emphasized that the knockout phase represents an entirely new competition, aiming to move past their group-stage challenges.
The match has seen several moments of excitement, including a close call for Senegal when Jakobs delivered a cross to Ismaila Sarr. Courtois, the Belgian goalkeeper, managed a slight touch on the ball, causing Sarr to drag it against the right-hand post. Sarr’s subsequent attempt from the rebound went into the side netting.
The game continues to be a lively contest as Senegal holds its lead.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo, who have brought romance to this tournament, had previously led England through Brian Cipenga’s seventh-minute goal. England captain Harry Kane later equalized, preventing his team from an early exit. England had only lost once to an African team before, in a friendly against Senegal last year.
The extended World Cup has featured good games and performances, though some fans have found the UK timings challenging for full involvement. African teams, along with the host countries, have shown strong performances in the tournament.
Belgium had previously thrashed New Zealand 5-1.
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Source: theguardian.com
