Senegal were bundled out on the last day of the
group phase in Russia after a count back of cautions after
finishing level with Japan in Group H.
They had made a bright start to the tournament by beating Poland
in Moscow but then flattered to decisive with talisman Sadio
Mane largely anonymous and highly rated defender Kalidou
Koulibaly caught out when he was most needed.
Liverpool's Mane managed a goal but looked worn out at the end
of a dramatic club season.
Koulibaly's imposing physique and usually reliable positional
awareness have made him a top defender in Europe, but he was
caught out when Japan got a late equalizer in the 2-2 draw in
Yakaterinburg and again for Colombia’s second half winner in
Samara on Thursday.
It came from a set piece, which had been Senegal’s strength in
the qualifiers but where they looked decidedly poor in Russia --
both in the taking of them and defending them.
They were also decidedly uninspiring in Thursday's defeat in
Samara, lacking a distinct quality in the final third despite
selecting a more attacking line-up.
They needed only a draw in their final group game to advance but
they let a healthy situation slip to end level with Japan on
four points from three games, with the same goal difference and
number of goals scored.
Japan had the better disciplinary record and so took second spot
behind Colombia to advance to the next stage in a bitter blow to
Senegal, and African football in general.
Coach Aliou Cisse surprised with some of his team selections,
including initially leaving out midfield general Cheikhou
Kouyate, who captained Senegal in all their qualifying matches,
and picking journeyman Khadim Ndiaye in goal.
It gave the impression of sudden doubt about his team’s
capabilities despite suffering only one loss in their last 27
matches before the World Cup finals.
(Editing by Amlan Chakraborty)
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