World Cup: Sensational Senegal win see-saw struggle to expel Ecuador

ALL’S well that ends well, and the Senegalese camp survived a ding-dong date with destiny as they beat Ecuador in the race for promotion from Group A to the knockout stage at World Cup 2022 in Qatar.

There was no doubt that the Netherlands (playing Qatar) would top the group, but the fight was on for the second spot: a win or draw for Ecuador would see them advance, but victory for the Lions of Teranga would see them advance.

Senegal had all the early chances, Idrissa Gueye and Boulaye Dia both missing the target, against a background of their tremendous fans in full, colourful cry.

Four shots in 15 minutes produced nothing but when Piero Hincapie brought down Senegal’s Ismaila Sarr, the Watford man calmly got to his feet for the spot kick and stroked the ball inside the far post.

Senegal ahead and on the road to the knockout phase, but it was far from over.

Ecuador were awarded a corner in the 67th minute and Moises Caicedo tapped in at close quarters for 1-1.

The Central Americans were now in second spot and heading for the Round of 16.

But just two minutes later, the situation was again reversed when a free kick from Gueye into the crowded box broke to Kalidou Koulibaly and the Chelsea defender’s side-footed volley sent Senegal into the lead again and ultimately into the next phase of the competition.

It ended 2-1 and since I had predicted Netherlands and Senegal to advance from this group, I feel pretty smug!