20 years after they last reached the last 16, Senegal secured their spot in the knockouts after they defeated Ecuador 2-1 thanks to a second half winner by captain Kalidou Koulibaly. In a carnival atmosphere at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, Senegal and Ecuador went head-to-head to determine their fate in Qatar. Ismaila Sarr also impressed for the Teranga Lions and put his team ahead in the first half from the spot. Brighton’s Moises Caicedo found an equaliser with around a quarter of the match to go but Koulibaly responded quickly to secure the victory, scoring with an assured finish just three minutes later. So, here’s our Senegal player ratings as they beat Ecuador on the final matchday of Group A.
Senegal (4-2-3-1):
Edouard Mendy – 5
Had very little to deal with throughout.
Youssouf Sabaly – 7.5
Was a threat down the right, linking up with Sheffield United’s Iliman Ndiaye in the first half. Unphased in defence but made less of an impact offensively in the second half.
Kalidou Koulibaly – 8.5
An absolute rock at the back. The Senegal captain responded quickly after the Ecuador equaliser, putting his side back in front from a set piece, applying a composed finish. Led his side to the round of 16 with a masterful performance.
Abdou Diallo – 5
Made a few clearances but didn’t have much to do for the most part.
Ismail Jakobs – 5
Not involved much to start, grew into the game a little but was sloppy in possession.
Pathe Ciss – 6.5
Won a few duels in the middle and was also solid aerially. Decent performance before being replaced by Nampalys Mendy.
Idrissa Gana Gueye – 6.5
Missed a great chance early on, failing to get his shot on target. Looked a threat in the opening phases but his impact dulled as the game went on. Booked for a late challenge on Gonzalo Plata in the second half and will now miss the first knockout round match. Did put in a dangerous free kick that led to Koulibaly’s goal.
Pape Gueye – 7
Lively early on, causing Ecuador a few problems and was able to create a couple of chances. Was strong in the midfield battle too but could have kept possession a little better.
Iliman Ndiaye – 6
Lively first half out on the right flank and was causing problems for Pervis Estupinan but lacked quality in the final third. Quiet after the break.
Ismaila Sarr – 8
Was the biggest threat during the first half and drew the foul that led to Senegal’s penalty. Tucked the pressure penalty away confidently to score his first World Cup goal for the Teranga Lions and put them ahead. Quiet in the second half but excellent first forty five.
Boulaye Dia – 5.5
Dragged a great chance wide of the post inside the first ten after getting in behind the Ecuador defence. Had a couple of efforts but it wasn’t the most influential of performances here.
Substitutions
Nampalys Mendy – 6
Brought on late for defensive protection and also moved the ball well.