The Teranga Lions looked like they were on course to getting their first points of the competition, but they capitulated in the closing embers
Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy was the villain of the night, as his clangers ensured that Senegal suffered a 2-0 loss to Netherlands in their opening game of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The Teranga Lions locked horns with Netherlands in their first fixture of the World Cup in Qatar, and it was always going to be a tough task considering the quality inherent in the Dutch team.
Senegal looked very good, and had a sturdy backline. They matched everything Netherlands threw their way and even had chances to score they were however profligate.
After holding on for 82 minutes, Senegal succumbed to their European opponents, and goalkeeper Edouard Mendy was complicit.
The Chelsea man misjudged Frenkie De Jong’s deep cross, and he was beaten to the ball by Gakpo, who headed the ball into an empty net.
Senegal went in search of an equaliser in the closing embers of the game, leaving their backline exposed, and they paid for it.
Netherlands went on a quick counter after the Teranga Lions lost the ball in midfield. Memphis Depay struck a shot towards Mendy, but the Senegalese shotstopper only parried the ball to his near side, and Klaasen took advantage of the opportunity to poke in Netherlands’ second and seal a 2-0 win.
Nigerian fans have taken to social media to berate Senegal for their loss. However, others believe that the Teranga Lions still have a lot to offer.
This post was last modified on November 21, 2022 9:27 pm