Senegal vs Netherlands: Talking Points as the Dutch snatch a late win

Senegal against the Netherlands was undoubtedly the match to watch in Group A at the FIFA World Cup 2022. Both countries were tipped as favorites to advance from Group A to the knockout stages. It was a difficult match to predict and so it turned out with the Netherlands thanks to goals from Cody Gakpo and Davy Klaasen. The victory opens the Dutch account in the World Cup while Senegal will have to start all over again. Here are some of the key talking points from the game.

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The Netherlands still has some areas to sort

It will be a moment of great joy and positivity in the Dutch camp right now. After a prolonged contest, they managed to score a few goals and keep a clean sheet in the process. However, Louis van Gaal will be well aware that he has some areas to settle in his favour. The Netherlands is considered one of the strongest teams in the tournament. However, some players looked well below their standards. Matthijs de Ligt finished second in several races, Frankie de Jong had trouble earlier and the front line was highly predictable. They will need to sort these out to continue strong in the tournament.

frankie de jong redeemed herself

In the 19th minute of the game, the Netherlands had a golden opportunity to go in front but ultimately it could not happen. Frankie de Jong found himself as the only keeper for the Beat but he took too long and lost the ball. In the first half, De Jong made some nervy passes at the back which could have cost them. However, the Barcelona man redeemed himself in grand fashion by assisting the first goal scored by Cody Gakpo. The midfielder lifted the ball gracefully over the Senegalese defense and was rewarded with an assist.

Lots of positives for Senegal

It will be a tough defeat for Senegal. Senegal, already reeling from the loss of their star man Sadio Mane, are now tied with Qatar in Group A. However, he will have plenty of positives from the game to look forward to. For most of the game, the African nation looked a serious threat on the counter-attack. Their defense, led by Kalidou Koulibaly, was rock solid until the last 10 minutes of the game. The match against Ecuador will now be crucial for Senegal’s chances in Group A.