The Teranga Lions of Senegal cruised to a 3-1 victory against host nation Qatar, at the Al Thumama Stadium and became the first African nation to record a win at this edition of the FIFA World Cup.
Senegal started the first half strongly, dominating possession and dictating play,.but were unable to make use of their chances effectively.
Aliou Cisse’s side registered six attempts but only managed to get two on target.
Meanwhile, Qatar were a little in their shell and offered nothing tangible in attack. Senegal created chances but needed a slice of luck to go ahead.
Boualem Khouki gifted Senegal the first goal as the Center back totally miscued his clearance and it fell kindly to the on rushing Boulaye Dia who made no mistake to put the African champions ahead in the first half.
The second half started in the same.vain.as the first and Senegal got the second goal just three minutes after the restart.
Ismail Jakobs sent a floating ball into the path of the unmarked Famara Diedhiou who made no mistake with his header to double the lead for Senegal.
Qatar suddenly reacted and seemed rejuvenated after conceding the second goal, they began to ask for the ball and take the game to Senegal, who were happy to defend their lead.
The hosts had a glorious chance to pull one back but Ismaeel Mohammed’s close range shot was blocked by Edouard Mendy in the 67th minute.
Encouraged by that chance, Qatar halved the deficit 10 minutes later, as substitute Mohammed Muntari jumped highest to send a powerful header past Mendy.
Senegal switched off after their second goal,.but suddenly switched back on knowing that a second goal from Qatar would spell doom for their campaign.
The Teranga Lions began to ask questions and finally extended their lead after a neat cut back from Iliman Ndiaye found Bamba Dieng, whose powerful shot was too much for the Qatari goalie.
Senegal will next face Ecuador, who also have three points from their opening game against Qatar.
