African Champions Senegal fell to a 2-0 defeat against the Netherlands in their opening Group A match of Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup the  at the Al Thumama Stadium on Monday.

The two teams canceled each other out for most parts of the game but it was Cody Gakpo and Davy Klaasssen who gave the Dutch a late victory.

Playing without Sadio Mane, Aliou Cisse’s men were not fazed by the big stage. The likes of Ismaila Sarr, Idrissa Gueye, Cheikhou Kouyate, and Kalidou Koulibaly were up to task to match the Dutch punch for punch in the early stages of the game.

The Senegal team had a chance early on after they pounced on an error in the Netherlands defence but Dia saw his effort blocked for a corner that was eventually cleared.

The Dutch had an opportunity wasted on the break finding themselves in on Senegal’s goal after Berghais squared for De Jong following Bergwijn’s excellent pass.

The midfielder only had Mendy to beat but checksled inside not once but twice, allowing the Senegal defence to get back and crowd him out.

Ismaila Sarr threatened for Senegal on the other end with forward taking down a long ball on the left of the Netherlands’ area. He checked inside and bended an effort towards the top corner that was well-blocked by Van Dijk.

The first 45 minutes ended goalless but nonetheless it was an Intriguing and competitive feast of football on Display.

Second half began frantically as it did in the first with both sides throwing caution to the wind.

Netherlands coach Louis Van Gaal brought in Memphis Depay with the hope of getting a goal. Equally Senegal coach Aliou Cisse brought in Bamba Dieng in place of Dia.

Idrissa Gueye had a glorious opportunity to put Senegal ahead on the 71st minute but the Netherlands keeper Noppert blocked the shot.

Just when the game was heading for a draw, Gakpo rose above the Senegal defense to head home the opening goal of the match after heading in Frankie De Jong’s cross.

Davy Klaasssen sealed the match deep into stoppage time pouncing onto a rebound after Mendy saved Memphis Depay’s initial shot.

Senegal now have to revive their hopes when the meet Qatar on Friday 25 November, 2022 while the Netherlands will come up against Ecuador.

Kelvin Trudeau Musako

Football Journalist | TotalEnergies AFCON 2021 Photographer | Media Officer - Kabwe Warriors FC | Graphic Designer | Videographer