Qatar is out of contention to proceed to the knockout run, even though they have a game against the Netherlands remaining.
Qatar who had already lost to Ecuador in the opening game of the world cup lost 3-1 against a free-flowing Senegal on Friday. As Netherlands and Ecuador drew 1-1 in the other match of the group, Qatar has no chance to qualify for the next round.
Senegal scored through a Boulaye Dia strike which was an outcome of a defensive error by Khoukhi, who failed to clear a through-ball.
Famara doubled Senegal’s lead by heading in a well delivered corner in the 48th minute.
In the 78th minute, a charging Muntari rose ahead of two defenders to head in the first goal for Qatar.
Bamba Dieng makes it 3️⃣!@FootballSenegal | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/pxbr7w3k2t
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 25, 2022
As Qatar searched for an equaliser, Senegal’s keeper Mendy made a couple of important saves to keep Senegal’s lead.
Bamba Dieng confirmed Senegal’s victory by turning in a cut-back pass from the right, as Senegal earned a very important 3 points.
In the other match of Group A, Netherlands took on Ecuador.
Netherlands forward Gakpo scored with a blistering strike off the left foot from outside of the penalty box to record the fastest goal of the tournament just after the 3rd minute.
Enenr Valencia, the captain of Ecuador, had a brilliant shot saved by Dutch Keeper Noppert in the 32nd minute to keep Netherlands lead intact.
After halftime, Ecuadors Estupinan had a good run from the left and released a powerful shot across the goal.
Dutch keeper Noppert could only block the shot and the rebound was pounced upon by Enner Valencia for his third goal of the tournament.
Valencia scored his sixth World Cup goal in only his fifth match.
Each team takes a point!@adidasfootball | #FIFAWorldCup
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 25, 2022
Ecuador was more creative and had greater control of the game, with the Dutch struggling to build up or keep the ball in possession.
In the 60th minute, Plata nearly gave Ecuador the lead with a curling and dipping shot but unfortunately, it hit the cross bar.
The score remained 1-1, and both teams seem satisfied with not losing any point on the day.
Netherlands continues to be firm favourites to go to the next round. They can confirm it with a point against Qatar. Even if they lose against Qatar, they can proceed if Ecuador defeats Senegal.
Senegal has no option but to defeat Ecuador to proceed further, while Ecuador can proceed with a draw.
