World Cup Round-Up As Senegal Prepares To Face England In Knock-Out Stage

A quick response by Senegal’s captain Kalidou Koulibaly fired the Lions of Teranga to their second-ever round of 16 in their last group match against Ecuador on Tuesday, November 29, 2022.

With a ‘no-look’ fantastic penalty by winger Ismaila Sarr that sent goalkeeper Herman Galindez the wrong way, Senegal took the lead at the stroke of half-time. Ecuador, who needed only a draw to qualify for the knockout stage, equalised 22 minutes into the second half with Moises Caicedo’s goal.

But it took three minutes for Koulibaly to halt the celebration of Ecuador fans at the stand when he netted the second, and decisive goal of the match, erupting African drums from the supportive colourful Senegalese fans.

Brazil, France, Portugal, Netherlands, and England had earlier qualified for the round of 16 before Senegal booked their place, and are to play England in the next stage. Australia, Argentina, Morocco have advanced to the knockout stage

The much-anticipated encounter between England and Senegal will take place at the Al Bayt Stadium on Sunday, December 4, 2022, by 8 pm Nigerian time and streamed live on Showmax Pro, courtesy of SuperSport.

England finished at the top of Group B with seven points, thrashing Iran 6-2 in their opening game, and finished the group stage with a 3-0 victory against Wales. Marcus Rashford is in a race for the golden boot, with the 25-year-old Manchester United forward having three goals in his name at the group stage.

On Thursday, December 1, 2022, Morocco topped World Cup Group F, for the first time since 1986. Hakim Ziyech opened the score line, four minutes into the game followed by En-Nesyri goal in the 26th minute that fired the Atlas Lions to the round of 16. With the 2-1 win of Canada, Morocco became the second African nation to qualify for the knockout stage and will face Spain on December 6, 2022.

Brazil booked their spot in the knockout stage with a 1-0 win over Switzerland. After Vinicius’s goal was disallowed, a sensational goal from Manchester United midfielder Casemiro gave the five-time World Cup winners a win. With the next stage secured, Brazil can rest key players when they face Cameroon Friday, December 2, 2022, who is hoping for a win to stand a chance to qualify.

While defending champions France lost 1-0 to Tunisia in their last Group D match on Wednesday, November 30, 2022, the Carthage Eagles crashed out of the tournament as Australia beat Denmark to retain second place in the group.

The round of 16 will kick off on Saturday, December 3, 2022. Catch all matches for round 16 in 4K and HD on Showmax Pro. Subscribe at www.showmax.com from as low as ₦3,200.