Senegal has already secured its place in the World Cup and is therefore using the international break in November to prepare for the big event. In Antalya, Turkey, they did so impressively on Tuesday against an overwhelmed Kenya.
While the battle for the coveted World Cup tickets was still raging in Europe, Senegal was already able to rehearse for the final tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico next year in November. The Senegalese won their qualifying group B in Africa undefeated, with 24 points ahead of the Democratic Republic of Congo (22).
Senegal lost the first of two tough tests last Saturday in London, with favorites Brazil proving too strong in front of almost 60,000 spectators at the Emirates Stadium (0-2). The second match took place on Tuesday in Antalya, Turkey, against Kenya. The latter had clearly missed out on World Cup qualification – and now had no chance against Senegal either.
In contrast to the England game, Pape Thiaw opted for PSG striker Mbaye and Munich loanee Jackson alongside former Bayern striker Mané up front this time. The latter’s desire to impress his national coach was evident from the first 15 minutes: Within six minutes, Jackson scored an impressive brace (9th, 15th), which West Ham’s Diouf added to with another goal (12th).
Senegal’s record goalscorer turns it on
Then Mané, who now plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, put on his big show: Senegal’s record goalscorer (52 goals in 121 international appearances) scored a hat trick before the break. He followed up his first goal in the 17th minute with two more by the 35th minute – the interim 5-0 coming from a penalty (31st minute).
Shortly after the break, Mbaye, who had previously “only” appeared twice as a provider, also got on the scoresheet (48th minute). The final score of 8-0 was ultimately down to Samsunspor striker Ndiaye (80th minute) – Mané and Jackson had long since left the pitch.
After this successful test, which should also give them a boost of confidence, the whole of Senegal is eagerly awaiting December 5, when the World Cup groups will be drawn in the US capital Washington D.C.
