A crucial victory against the hosts revived Senegal’s hopes of qualifying for the knock-out stage.
Senegal defeated Qatar 3-1 in their World Cup game on Friday. The Lions of Teranga claimed the three points with a dominant display as Qatar suffered their second defeat.
Lions getting used to Mane’s absence!
Senegal struggled to convert their goalscoring chances against Netherlands last week. The absence of Sadio Mane had a tangible effect on the Lions’ attacking edge.
But Aliou Cisse’s side started their match against Qatar on a different note.
Senegal quickly established their dominance over possession while gradually increasing the pressure on Qatar’s backline.
Following a defensive mistake from Boualem Khoukhi in the 41st minute, Boulaye Dia scored Senegal’s first goal in the tournament.
Senegal then doubled their lead only three minutes into the second period with Famara Diedhiou’s powerful header. The goal forced Qatar to go all-in with their attacks as they left more space behind their backline.
The hosts finally scored their first-ever World Cup goal when Mohammed Muntari converted Ismaeel Mohammad’s cross with a precise header.
Qatar then pushed to get the equalizer, but Senegal finished off the game with a goal from Bamba Diang. Following a cutback from Moussa Ndiaye, Diang made it 3-1 with a precise shot in the 84th minute.
Cisse’s team will now prepare to lock horns with Ecuador in their final group-stage game on Tuesday, while Qatar host Netherlands.
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