Senegal became the first African team to win a game at the Qatar 2022 World Cup today with a 3-1 victory over the hosts at the Al Thumama Stadium in Doha.
The African champions had lost their opening match against The Netherlands on Monday but are now back in contention to qualify for the round of 16 from Group A.
Boulaye Dia, Famara Diedhiou and Bamba Dieng struck for the Teranga Lions, while the hosts’ first-ever World Cup goal was scored by Mohammed Muntari.
Senegal started as favourites against the inexperienced hosts and they began the contest brightly, knowing full well that they had to win to keep their knockout rounds hopes alive.
The opening goal did not arrive until four minutes to half-time as Dia netted the African champions’ first goal of the tournament.
Senegal were 2-0 up within three minutes of the second half, Diedhiou giving Aliou Cisse’s side some breathing room.
Teranga Lions goalkeeper Edouard Mendy was called to action as Qatar poured forward and the Chelsea star was equal to the task twice.
Still, Qatar played their way back into the game as Muntari, who was born in Ghana, headed home powerfully in the 78th minute.
Senegal avoided any upset though, as Dieng swept home from close range in the 84th minute.
Senegal will face Ecuador in their final group fixture on Tuesday when a win will send Africa’s top team in the FIFA rankings to the round of 16.
